Federal Member for Hinkler Keith Pitt has thanked voters in the electorate who have returned him for a fourth term in Parliament.

Speaking after the Declaration of the Poll in Bundaberg today, Mr Pitt said he was humbled once again by the support shown by the community.

“It’s an absolute privilege to be re-elected by the people of Hinkler and to have their support to be their advocate in Canberra for another three years.

“I have always put the interests of the people that call this region home first and I will continue for fight for them.

“I stood on my record of delivery and I will continue to build on the work I have done for the communities of Hervey Bay, Bundaberg, Childers, Woodgate, Buxton, Burrum Heads, Howard, Toogoom and Aldershot and everywhere in between.

“We have seen a significant reduction in the unemployment rate locally, there is more work available than ever before and we have major projects at both ends of the electorate which will bring more local jobs.

“I will lobby the Labor Government to support the $400,000 commitment for increased CCTV in Hervey Bay to help address crime affecting businesses and residents, as well as the up to $60 million for a North Bundaberg evacuation route as it is a project supported by the community.

“I will fight to ensure that the up to $600 million to restore Paradise Dam is delivered in a timely manner. Is it too important to our community and local economy to have this project dragged out and the dam needs to be restored as soon as possible.

“I fought for and delivered one of Australia’s first regional deals and I look forward to seeing the remaining projects get underway in the near future including the Royal Flying Doctor Service aviation training facility in Bundaberg and the multi-use conveyor at the Port of Bundaberg, and in the southern part of the electorate, the flood-proofing of Torbanlea-Pialba Road and the redevelopment of the Hervey Bay CBD.

“I want to acknowledge the other candidates who put themselves forward for this election. It takes a lot of time and effort, and wish them all the best in the future.

“And finally, I want to thank the volunteers, supporters, my staff and my family who gave their time throughout the campaign. I wouldn’t have been able to achieve this result without this fantastic team. Thank you.”