So Byron Shire Cr Paul Spooner says he will fight CSG and protect our beaches, rivers and forests. Fine words Paul, but where have you been?
I must have missed you at Bentley or the Save Our Marine Parks rallies and I’ve never heard you utter a word about climate change or the devastation that plastic is causing in our oceans.
When it comes to protecting our planet I’m happy to stand by my actions, not just words.
I have spent the last seven years working most days (unpaid) at Australian Seabird Rescue, dealing with the impact on turtles, birds and the odd dolphin of our throw away, disposable lifestyle.
I have seen more death and cruelty than I care to remember. But I can’t forget a beautiful Hawksbill turtle that died in my arms, its last action to excrete the balloon fragments that caused its death.
My passion for the environment hasn’t just lasted seven years.
I completed my degree in environmental economics in 1990. I was also a founding member of the Environmental Defenders Office, have actively campaigned for the strong action on climate change for more than two decades, and as a former executive officer of the industry body Ecotourism Australia, actually understand what I mean when I talk about creating sustainable jobs.
When you receive the ballot papers in the post for the Labor community pre-selection, you will have a real choice.
Please don’t just look at who has the biggest marketing budget. I’m concerned about the influence of money in Australian politics and have made a personal ethical decision to limit campaign spending and who I will accept donations from.
Check out both candidates. Information on what I stand for and how to vote is at www.keithwill.com
Cr Keith Williams, Ballina
For four decades The Echo has printed the stories some people loved, some people hated, and some pretended not to read. If you want us to keep telling the truth, the real truth, not the sugar-coated version. We’ll need your support to keep the presses rolling. 
