General News
31 August, 2024
Pitt endorses TV actor
STATE Member for Mulgrave and Speaker of the House Curtis Pitt is quitting politics after 15 years and has backed television actor Aaron Fa’aoso as his replacement.
Mr Pitt will finish at the state election in October. Mr Fa’aoso has yet to be endorsed by the ALP.
Mr Pitt said the decision was not taken lightly.
“I’ve always said that the day I wake up and don’t feel I can give it 100 percent, then it’s time for me to do something else,” he said.
“When I think back, all of my kids have been born since I’ve been an MP. Having been a member of parliament for five terms, I know that I’ve missed so many important milestones and occasions.
“I want the chance to be there for my children during an important phase of their life. I also have parents who have failing health and, just like they’ve been there for me, I want to be there for them.
“For the first time in a long time, I don’t know exactly what’s next for me. But I know that I’ve given all I can to this job and the people I’ve been so honoured to represent in my local area.
“I’ve been fortunate to have been a minister of the Crown in many diverse portfolio areas, I’ve been Treasurer of Queensland, acting Premier on multiple occasions, and the Speaker of Parliament.
“It has been the greatest privilege of my life. It’s now the time to give all I can for the people closest to me – my family and loved ones.”
Mr Fa’aoso said he understood the need to have strong representation in Mulgrave.
“Curtis and his dad have both demonstrated that over decades and showing that if you stand up and fight for Far North Queensland, we can get great results,” he said.
“The Pitt family have a proud history of standing up for what’s right and that’s something I’ve tried to do throughout my own life.
“I know that the fast-growing southern corridor of Cairns is a big part of Mulgrave and it’s important to ensure we get the necessary services and infrastructure to keep up with that growth.
“The electorate also includes a town like Gordonvale that has its own unique identity and needs.
“And as an Indigenous man I know firsthand the challenges and opportunities facing Yarrabah – the largest Aboriginal community in Australia.
“I’m putting myself forward for public office because I believe I can be a voice for the Far North and be a strong advocate to get our fair share.”
