It’s Official: Andrew Willcox Declared Federal Member

Mackay and Whitsunday Life

It's been almost four weeks since the election and on Wednesday, June 15 at 1pm the seat of Dawson was finally declared and Andrew Willcox was officially offered the top job as our new Federal Member.

Anne Becker from the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) officiated the ceremony at the central office in Sydney Street, Mackay and Willcox received all the relevant documents.

He will soon be heading to Canberra to be sworn into parliament and given the full responsibilities of his new role.

The past four weeks in limbo have been challenging for our new Federal Member, but in true Willcox-style that we remember from his time as our mayor, he has made the most every moment – heading out into the community, listening to the people in his electorate and attending as many events as possible.

“This day has been a long time coming but I have been travelling the length and breadth of Dawson during the interim,” he said.

“A lot of people have put their faith in me, so I want to make sure I work for the community.

“I have been humbled by the support I’ve received, and I am ready to go out and fight for our fair share for our region.”

Excited for his new role but also sad to be leaving the Whitsunday Regional Council, Willcox said it was a “bittersweet moment”.

“I’ve really enjoyed my role as mayor and I would like to thank all the people in the community for putting their faith in me,” he said.

“I would also like to thank all the Council staff who often go above and beyond, and my councillors – I wish my successor all the success.”