Branch News Update - December 2014

Qld ALP reflects on 2014, 
looks forward to New Year

Both the State Opposition Leader, Annastacia Palaszczuk (pictured), and Queensland ALP president, Dick Williams, have used their annual Christmas messages to remind rank and file members of the achievements of 2014, and the opportunities posed by the New Year.

"After almost three years of hard work, Labor has rebuilt, reconnected with Queenslanders, and is ready to face 2015 and the state election", Ms Palaszczuk wrote.

Indeed this year saw two important by-elections where the ruling LNP government sustained massive double-digit swings, providing a much needed boost to Labor's representation in State Parliament. Additionally, the Party held a very successful state conference in August which saw the adoption of a new policy platform and the introduction of several landmark organisational reforms.

Writing to members, Party State President, Dick Williams, acknowledged the work of the many volunteers and their candidates over the past year, as the Party readies itself for the eventual Queensland state election.

"Thank you all for the hard work you have done...the ongoing state campaigns and the valuable grass-roots work local branch members are delivering in communities", Mr Williams outlined in his message to members.

It is expected that the state election could now be held as early as mid-February 2015.

Christmas hamper appeal spreads festive cheer

The Annerley Branch has capped off 2014, by organising yet another Christmas hamper appeal, handing over a large donation of food items to Micah Projects.

Helping out with the donation handover this year was Griffith MP, Terri Butler (pictured). Each year, Micah Projects - a West End based community organisation - co-ordinates a Christmas hamper appeal to help families in need during the festive season.

Thanks to Branch members, and Graham Perrett MP for his donation of Lions Christmas cakes, this years haul was impressive and was warmly welcomed by the volunteers at Micah Projects.

For more information about Micah Projects and their valuable work, please visit their website at www.micahprojects.org.au

Members honour Wayne Goss 

Annerley Branch members used the 25th anniversary of the election of the Goss Labor Government to adopt a unanimous resolution honouring the legacy of former Premier, Wayne Goss.

Mr Goss, who sadly passed away recently, led the Australian Labor Party to its first electoral victory in 32 years. The Goss Labor Government played an important role in modernising Queensland's democratic and public institutions after a long stagnant and corrupt rule by the conservatives.

Branch members were keen to record their thanks to Wayne Goss for the vital part he played to restore public faith in the state's somewhat tainted political system. 

For more information about the resolution please email info@annerleylabor.org