According to Google, Division 4 Candidate Shane Cuthbert, is the most popular Candidate in the upcoming Cairns Regional Council Elections to be held in March.
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For the latest Media Releases CLICK HERE
Let's Make Cairns Safe Again - Shane Cuthbert 2024
"I understand offending behaviour, having reformed and rehabilitated myself. I was once sentenced as a young person by former Magistrate and Candidate for Division 8, Pat O'Shane" - Shane Cuthbert
THE biggest issues affecting residents are youth crime, housing affordability, availability and the cost of living. The current UNITY led Council, wastes a staggering 3.6 million dollars per year on CitySafe security patrols. Time and time again I have witnessed these security officers neglect and step over the disadvantaged and displaced in town, calling the police only when there has been an 'incident'.
The Police say "they do not run a taxi service" and I agree, They have enough to deal with as it is. I would like to see funding allocated to services that ACTUALLY address the needs of those displaced in our CBD whilst cleaning it up at the same time. That's right.. We can do both.
Imagine Council operating a bus that takes disadvantaged residents to diversionary facilities, homeless shelters, hospitals and other services that ADDRESS their NEEDS whilst reducing crime and loitering in the CBD instead? Likewise, we can address the NEEDS of young offenders and reduce crime at the same time.
I've been advocating for a 24 hour youth centre in Cairns to provide an alternative to young people on the streets. When I approached Council with a request to access an unused Council space during the night, the answer was NO. We KNOW that Crime peaks between 12am and 2am and there are no programs, spaces, activities or services available past 11pm..
It is a no brainer for me, as someone who was once one of these kids, I know what a positive impact something like that would have had in my life and the lives of others. A safe space, operating during those hours will reduce crime, engaging with Police and other services to identify where groups of at risk children are located and pick them up.The current UNITY led Council has NO IDEA how to prevent crime and address homelessness, but I do. I have lived and breathed these issues...
Ive made plenty of mistakes in my life BUT I have learned from them. I remain open, honest and transparent. I have been homeless in Cairns and I was a young offender but having turned my life around, here in Cairns.. I have dedicated the rest of it to making Cairns safe again!
I have come this far and with your support, maybe WE can finally CHANGE things.
The Police say "they do not run a taxi service" and I agree, They have enough to deal with as it is. I would like to see funding allocated to services that ACTUALLY address the needs of those displaced in our CBD whilst cleaning it up at the same time. That's right.. We can do both.
Imagine Council operating a bus that takes disadvantaged residents to diversionary facilities, homeless shelters, hospitals and other services that ADDRESS their NEEDS whilst reducing crime and loitering in the CBD instead? Likewise, we can address the NEEDS of young offenders and reduce crime at the same time.
I've been advocating for a 24 hour youth centre in Cairns to provide an alternative to young people on the streets. When I approached Council with a request to access an unused Council space during the night, the answer was NO. We KNOW that Crime peaks between 12am and 2am and there are no programs, spaces, activities or services available past 11pm..
It is a no brainer for me, as someone who was once one of these kids, I know what a positive impact something like that would have had in my life and the lives of others. A safe space, operating during those hours will reduce crime, engaging with Police and other services to identify where groups of at risk children are located and pick them up.The current UNITY led Council has NO IDEA how to prevent crime and address homelessness, but I do. I have lived and breathed these issues...
Ive made plenty of mistakes in my life BUT I have learned from them. I remain open, honest and transparent. I have been homeless in Cairns and I was a young offender but having turned my life around, here in Cairns.. I have dedicated the rest of it to making Cairns safe again!
I have come this far and with your support, maybe WE can finally CHANGE things.
"I'm not afraid to tell it how it is and I'm not afraid of the State and Federal Governments, no longer will we support a Council that avoids taking responsibility, if it's happening in Cairns, it's OUR issue, no more shifting the blame" - Shane Cuthbert
The ONLY Candidate worth voting for.I was the ONLY candidate besides PAUL TAYLOR FOR MAYOR that bothered speaking to the Queensland Parliament Youth Justice Reform Select Committee in regards to the Youth Crime Crisis and I did so alongside the Magistrate that once sentenced me.. How's that for turning your life around?
When the UNITY team gave their mate Brett the Deputy Mayor Role and appointed Jeremy as a Councillor without YOUR support.. I was the ONLY candidate who bothered to ask YOU what you thought about that.. collecting 1000+ signatures in support of my nomination.
Further, I was the ONLY candidate who pledged to donate their Council pay check to Cairns based charities..Consider that Jeremy Neal took home close to 20k to attend one Council meeting having been appointed by his mates. The UNELECTED candidate. He's telling his followers that the funding for his campaign comes from working overtime shifts as an ambo.. We KNOW the truth.
Im the ONLY candidate challenging the status quo, the old guard, the old boys club, the powers that be and the way things are. I'll be the ONLY candidate with the courage to stand up to State and Federal Governments. Unlike other team candidates, I am nobodies puppet.
On March 16, I'm the ONLY candidate worth voting for.
When the UNITY team gave their mate Brett the Deputy Mayor Role and appointed Jeremy as a Councillor without YOUR support.. I was the ONLY candidate who bothered to ask YOU what you thought about that.. collecting 1000+ signatures in support of my nomination.
Further, I was the ONLY candidate who pledged to donate their Council pay check to Cairns based charities..Consider that Jeremy Neal took home close to 20k to attend one Council meeting having been appointed by his mates. The UNELECTED candidate. He's telling his followers that the funding for his campaign comes from working overtime shifts as an ambo.. We KNOW the truth.
Im the ONLY candidate challenging the status quo, the old guard, the old boys club, the powers that be and the way things are. I'll be the ONLY candidate with the courage to stand up to State and Federal Governments. Unlike other team candidates, I am nobodies puppet.
On March 16, I'm the ONLY candidate worth voting for.
"Cairns is positioned between the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest and its important that we continue to advocate for these heritage sites and set an example for the rest of the world in environmental managment", "I regularly volunteer with environmental organisations based here in Cairns, among others, doing my bit for the environment and our community" - Shane Cuthbert
UNITY says "Your are in safe hands" but that is not true. UNITY does not know the first thing about crime.The current UNITY team wants to increase YOUR rates and blow millions of dollars on installing CCTV in YOUR suburbs, supported by Team Eden. This is a waste of Money. This will not prevent Crime.
The Current Unity team wants to remove shrubs and low hanging branches to increase surveillance in Cairns. This too will not prevent crime.
The Current UNITY led Council has funded a golf buggy used by the Queensland Police and security officers to fetch the lunch orders at a cost of 250k and a hybrid vehicle that sits unused on the Esplanade at a cost of 350k. Another waste of money.
ALL this wasted money when Crime is out of control, homelessness is on the rise and YOU receive a 6% rates increase in the mail. Consider that a UNITY led Council has earmarked a further rates increase of 5.7%.. That's right..
Consider that under a UNITY led Council, our debt has increased from 88 to 174 million dollars. It's nice supporting the old boys club, big end of town and tourism BUT, our suburbs have been neglected.
(UNITY leader and 'temporary' Mayor Terry James daughter is the Cairns Council Chief Financial officer). Go figure..Im the ONLY candidate to have bothered attending Council meetings over the last two years which means that i'm the ONLY candidate up to date on Council processes and issues. I'm the ONLY candidate who knows what's going on. Im the ONLY candidate who, by the end of this week shall have personally knocked on every door in the Division not once.. but twice.. (except for a few streets in Kanimbla my partner Georgia came with me) and (except any units, gated communities and/or homes with big dogs).
The Current Unity team wants to remove shrubs and low hanging branches to increase surveillance in Cairns. This too will not prevent crime.
The Current UNITY led Council has funded a golf buggy used by the Queensland Police and security officers to fetch the lunch orders at a cost of 250k and a hybrid vehicle that sits unused on the Esplanade at a cost of 350k. Another waste of money.
ALL this wasted money when Crime is out of control, homelessness is on the rise and YOU receive a 6% rates increase in the mail. Consider that a UNITY led Council has earmarked a further rates increase of 5.7%.. That's right..
Consider that under a UNITY led Council, our debt has increased from 88 to 174 million dollars. It's nice supporting the old boys club, big end of town and tourism BUT, our suburbs have been neglected.
(UNITY leader and 'temporary' Mayor Terry James daughter is the Cairns Council Chief Financial officer). Go figure..Im the ONLY candidate to have bothered attending Council meetings over the last two years which means that i'm the ONLY candidate up to date on Council processes and issues. I'm the ONLY candidate who knows what's going on. Im the ONLY candidate who, by the end of this week shall have personally knocked on every door in the Division not once.. but twice.. (except for a few streets in Kanimbla my partner Georgia came with me) and (except any units, gated communities and/or homes with big dogs).
"As someone who has experienced homelessness in Cairns, I stand with Cairns residents experiencing rent and mortgage stress", "The current Council plans to waive six million dollars for wealthy developers and its time we supported those struggling to keep a roof over their heads" - Shane Cuthbert
Sleeping Out with Shane Cuthbert
Raising Funds and Awareness for Homelessness in Cairns
"As someone who has experienced homelessness in Cairns, I stand with Cairns residents experiencing rent and mortgage stress", "We currently waive thousands in fees for wealthy developers and its time we supported those struggling to keep a roof over their heads" - Shane Cuthbert
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Voting is compulsory in Australia and all Cairns residents will be required to vote in the upcoming Cairns Local Council Election on March 16. Cairns Election candidate Shane Cuthbert has provided a copy of the How to Vote Cairns Election material and the Cairns How to Vote card has been approved by the ECQ, also available on their website. Additional information on How to Vote in Cairns Election 2024 can be found here. Interested in Postal Voting Cairns, click here. Cairns Postal Voting may be useful for those travelling and/or working away.
Shane Cuthbert How To Vote Card Cairns Regional Council Local Government Election 2024
For the latest Media Releases CLICK HERE
WHY ARE YOU RUNNING FOR COUNCIL?
In all honesty, I am running because my friend and former member for Cairns Rob Pyne, asked me to consider running four years ago.
I had reached out to Rob to seek his support in establishing a 24 hour youth centre in Cairns to reduce youth crime and Rob thought I would be an asset to the Council as a young go getter and someone that has turned their life around here in Cairns.
I had reached out to Rob to seek his support in establishing a 24 hour youth centre in Cairns to reduce youth crime and Rob thought I would be an asset to the Council as a young go getter and someone that has turned their life around here in Cairns.
HOW CAN YOU REPRESENT COUNCIL WITH A CRIMINAL RECORD?
All great questions, I’d like to answer this in two parts if I can.
Firstly, the requirements for anyone wishing to run for Council and/or State and Federal Government is quite minimal. The Electoral Act requires that an individual not have any convictions for fraud and/or anything against the electoral Act and not be a disclosed bankrupt. I am neither.
Secondly, in the interests of transparency, I do have a criminal record and although it does not contain any serious offences, I have spent time in custody for breach of bail, evade police, resist arrest, drink driving, wilful damage and there are also entries for using an alias to book a flight in the name of Kermit Frog and public nuisance.
Millions of TikTok users have watched my videos where I discuss my experiences with the justice system, prison and youth offending.
All great questions, I’d like to answer this in two parts if I can.
Firstly, the requirements for anyone wishing to run for Council and/or State and Federal Government is quite minimal. The Electoral Act requires that an individual not have any convictions for fraud and/or anything against the electoral Act and not be a disclosed bankrupt. I am neither.
Secondly, in the interests of transparency, I do have a criminal record and although it does not contain any serious offences, I have spent time in custody for breach of bail, evade police, resist arrest, drink driving, wilful damage and there are also entries for using an alias to book a flight in the name of Kermit Frog and public nuisance.
Millions of TikTok users have watched my videos where I discuss my experiences with the justice system, prison and youth offending.
WHAT MAKES YOU A GOOD CANDIDATE?
What a great question.What makes me a great candidate is my ability to engage and connect with all members of the community.
Division 4 is a mix of low and high socio-economic suburbs. There is a mix of business owners and also those in need of more support. As a business owner myself, I know how to talk with people, help them achieve their goals and solve their problems but, as someone who has been incarcerated, disadvantaged, did not complete school and whom has been homeless, I know what its like when times are tough. I believe that I appeal to all voters.
Division 4 encompasses the three M’s Manoora, Mooroobool and Manunda, Kanimbla and Earlville, I don’t think this area has seen representation of this type before. WHAT WILL YOU DO IN DIVISION 4 I’m running a campaign focused on some very big issues such as, homelessness and youth crime and although I believe Council has a role to play in solving, attempting to solve and/or fix both, I will admit that it will involve a lot of work and advocacy.
There are however, as a Councillor things that can be done in the Division without too much effort. For example, did you know that each councillor gets allocated ‘divisional dollars’ each year? money that can be spent by the Councillor to do things in their division, without the need for the votes of others in support.
I have spent the last three months door knocking in Division 4 and I've compiled a list of local projects that I would like to support.
I would like to provide more street lighting, repeair many unsafe and broken footpaths in the area, plant more trees and build more toilets. I’d also like to see more trees planted near the Kanimbla bike track, used often on a weekened by families and young kids, we must provide some protection from the sun.
I would also support planting more trees and building more toilets generally, especially in the CBD where there is a lack of toilets.
Division 4 is a mix of low and high socio-economic suburbs. There is a mix of business owners and also those in need of more support. As a business owner myself, I know how to talk with people, help them achieve their goals and solve their problems but, as someone who has been incarcerated, disadvantaged, did not complete school and whom has been homeless, I know what its like when times are tough. I believe that I appeal to all voters.
Division 4 encompasses the three M’s Manoora, Mooroobool and Manunda, Kanimbla and Earlville, I don’t think this area has seen representation of this type before. WHAT WILL YOU DO IN DIVISION 4 I’m running a campaign focused on some very big issues such as, homelessness and youth crime and although I believe Council has a role to play in solving, attempting to solve and/or fix both, I will admit that it will involve a lot of work and advocacy.
There are however, as a Councillor things that can be done in the Division without too much effort. For example, did you know that each councillor gets allocated ‘divisional dollars’ each year? money that can be spent by the Councillor to do things in their division, without the need for the votes of others in support.
I have spent the last three months door knocking in Division 4 and I've compiled a list of local projects that I would like to support.
I would like to provide more street lighting, repeair many unsafe and broken footpaths in the area, plant more trees and build more toilets. I’d also like to see more trees planted near the Kanimbla bike track, used often on a weekened by families and young kids, we must provide some protection from the sun.
I would also support planting more trees and building more toilets generally, especially in the CBD where there is a lack of toilets.
CAN YOU RUN FOR COUNCIL WITH TATTOOS?
Another great question.You know I was asked this by High School students recently as a representative of CQU. I was asked by the students, facing barriers to education whether I could become a lawyer with so many tattoos.
Im very proud to be joining the legal profession and responded by telling them that the legal profession in particular was not discriminative, we even allow former criminals to practice, that is because the law believes in equity, fairness and rehabilitation.
Everyone deserves a second chance and I am not the only one. The Victorian State Government recently elected its youngest representative (Georgie Purcell MP) and I think she has more tattoos than me”.
Im very proud to be joining the legal profession and responded by telling them that the legal profession in particular was not discriminative, we even allow former criminals to practice, that is because the law believes in equity, fairness and rehabilitation.
Everyone deserves a second chance and I am not the only one. The Victorian State Government recently elected its youngest representative (Georgie Purcell MP) and I think she has more tattoos than me”.
WHAT WILL YOU DO IF ELECTED?
Stamp out the corruption.
The Current Council and in particular, the Unity team led by Bob Manning and Terry James has over the last four years, been subjected to investigation by the Crime and Misconduct Commission and had multiple claims of corruption made against them.
The NEW Cairns Unity team may have some fresh faces and may have dropped their median age by 20 years but is still being led by current Unity Deputy Mayor and now Cairns Council Mayoral candidate Terry James.
The Unity team are known to have secret team meetings and in a move to further minimise the rights of community members to oversee important decisions being made about them, the Unity team recently voted down on a motion to put a stop to Councillors ability to raise general business motions.
In order for a Councillor, independent or other, now must obtain a majority (behind closed doors and a majority Unity controls) support, in order to bring an issue to the Council during general business. This effectively silences your Councillors ability to advocate for you publicly and means more back room deals and less transparency.
If elected I will support bringing back general business motions and feel that in order to effectively represent our constituents, it’s important all Councillors have an ability to bring matters concerning their constituents to the table, to be debated in plain view. IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO INTRODUCE? Apart from re-introducing general business motions, I would like to hold monthly meetings in my division, with my constituents where they are able to raise their concerns and issues with me directly.
Over the last three months door-knocking, I have spoken with a great many residents who feel neglected, unheard and that their local Councillor (Terry James) is inaccessible.
I am accessible via phone, text, email and most social media channels, as a young candidate I'm certainly up to date on technologies and believe its a requirementof the job to be accessible.Constituents will also be able to contact me in person at my office in Bungalow.
The Current Council and in particular, the Unity team led by Bob Manning and Terry James has over the last four years, been subjected to investigation by the Crime and Misconduct Commission and had multiple claims of corruption made against them.
The NEW Cairns Unity team may have some fresh faces and may have dropped their median age by 20 years but is still being led by current Unity Deputy Mayor and now Cairns Council Mayoral candidate Terry James.
The Unity team are known to have secret team meetings and in a move to further minimise the rights of community members to oversee important decisions being made about them, the Unity team recently voted down on a motion to put a stop to Councillors ability to raise general business motions.
In order for a Councillor, independent or other, now must obtain a majority (behind closed doors and a majority Unity controls) support, in order to bring an issue to the Council during general business. This effectively silences your Councillors ability to advocate for you publicly and means more back room deals and less transparency.
If elected I will support bringing back general business motions and feel that in order to effectively represent our constituents, it’s important all Councillors have an ability to bring matters concerning their constituents to the table, to be debated in plain view. IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO INTRODUCE? Apart from re-introducing general business motions, I would like to hold monthly meetings in my division, with my constituents where they are able to raise their concerns and issues with me directly.
Over the last three months door-knocking, I have spoken with a great many residents who feel neglected, unheard and that their local Councillor (Terry James) is inaccessible.
I am accessible via phone, text, email and most social media channels, as a young candidate I'm certainly up to date on technologies and believe its a requirementof the job to be accessible.Constituents will also be able to contact me in person at my office in Bungalow.
For the latest Media Releases CLICK HERE
This is Mr Cuthbert's first campaign and he says "I wouldn’t be here without the support of Former MP and current Cairns Councillor Rob Pyne, who asked me if I had ever considered running for Council", given his demonstrated commitment to the local community, volunteer and advocacy work in the housing and youth crime spaces.
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"I've been asked to speak to Queensland Parliament in relation to victims of crime support and decriminalising public offences", "Victims, when not given adequate support often become perpetrators, we can see this in the youth crime and domestic violence spaces" - Shane Cuthbert
At first Mr Cuthbert laughed and says "I never considered myself the political candidate type but my personal story is resonating with voters. People love a good underdog story, they love to see a young person like me take a stand against the old gaurd, party politics, corruption, challenging the way things are". As Australians, we love to see someone giving it a crack, given a fair go.
If elected on March 16, Mr Cuthbert says he will do exactly that.. as an independent. Independent from teams, political parties, dodgy deals and all that comes with that, he’ll be representing the residents of Division 4 who feel they have been forgotten and left behind. It’s time a NEW Council considers our neglected suburbs and ALL residents of Cairns, not only the tourists. Any of the candidates running as part of a team are just puppets, team members come with strings attached and that means that any vote for a team candidate does as well.
We have seen what teams do recently when it came to implementing a cashless Council system, when it came to removing general business motions and YOUR Councillors ability to raise issues affecting YOU. We also saw it with the promotion of Terry James to Mayor, Brett Moller as Deputy Mayor and Jeremy Neal to Division 4. All unelected positions.
"Speaking with residents, I believe they have had enough of team politics in local Councils and are looking for representatives that represent their interests, not those of the teams. I expect independents will perform well this election". - Shane Cuthbert
If elected on March 16, Mr Cuthbert says he will do exactly that.. as an independent. Independent from teams, political parties, dodgy deals and all that comes with that, he’ll be representing the residents of Division 4 who feel they have been forgotten and left behind. It’s time a NEW Council considers our neglected suburbs and ALL residents of Cairns, not only the tourists. Any of the candidates running as part of a team are just puppets, team members come with strings attached and that means that any vote for a team candidate does as well.
We have seen what teams do recently when it came to implementing a cashless Council system, when it came to removing general business motions and YOUR Councillors ability to raise issues affecting YOU. We also saw it with the promotion of Terry James to Mayor, Brett Moller as Deputy Mayor and Jeremy Neal to Division 4. All unelected positions.
"Speaking with residents, I believe they have had enough of team politics in local Councils and are looking for representatives that represent their interests, not those of the teams. I expect independents will perform well this election". - Shane Cuthbert
Image Supplied by ECQ
"I suppport Councillor Rob Pyne's decision to vote against the Cairns Council Rates increase", "There is no longer 'Unity' in Cairns 'Unity' team with former Unity team Mayor Kevin Byrne and Councillor Amy Eden leaving them behind, putting together their own teams" - Shane Cuthbert
In Division 4 specifically, I have heard that;
We don’t want CCTV cameras installed in the suburbs, cash is and must remain king, traffic should be diverted from Carnation Drive through to Irene Street, the popular Kanimbla Pump track needs shade sails, trees, more seating and public toilets installed, Council contractors conducting maintenance in parks and surrounds must perform better, Council is not doing enough to ensure public safety around off lead and lead dog parks where attacks could cause serious injuries to residents and the Balaclava Public School has been neglected and children headed to school of a morning are doing so at the risk to their personal safety, myself and Rob Pyne recently pledged to combine our Divisional dollars within the first 12 months of election to install a footpath on McCoombe Street opposite the School to increase access and safety.
First Formerly Incarcerated Politician
The eyes of Queenslanders and Australians across the Country, are watching this campaign very closely. If elected, Shane Cuthbert will be the first formerly incarcerated politician in Australia, of any level (Local, State or Federal).
Shane Cuthbert is challenging stereotypes, stigma and barriers to change, in order to prove that not only is it possible to turn your life around but that it’s also possible to get a seat at the table where decisions affecting ALL Australians are made. Shane Cuthbert would like to encourage those with lived experience in the justice system, mental health, drug and alcohol spaces to share those experiences in the hopes of helping others.
Shane Cuthbert is challenging stereotypes, stigma and barriers to change, in order to prove that not only is it possible to turn your life around but that it’s also possible to get a seat at the table where decisions affecting ALL Australians are made. Shane Cuthbert would like to encourage those with lived experience in the justice system, mental health, drug and alcohol spaces to share those experiences in the hopes of helping others.
"I have spent three years advocating for a 24 hour youth centre in Cairns, supporting our disadvantaged youth and reducing youth related crime" - Shane Cuthbert
In 2020, after discussing possible solutions and alternatives to youth crime issues with Cairns MP Michael Healy, Shane Cuthbert established the 'change the world foundation', which advocates for youth in Cairns, applying for the Queensland Government Community Partnerships grant to establish a 24-hour youth centre in Cairns, that aims to minimise youth crime whilst providing a safe place for at risk, vulnerable youth at night, access to clothing, bedding and food whilst also providing mentorship and guidance to young offenders currently before the legal system in various capacities.
Shane Cuthbert also works with adults experiencing and/or perpetrating domestic and family violence as the main facilitator of adult male mentoring sessions on behalf of domestic violence anonymous. A service reducing and preventing domestic violence through peer support, education and mentorship for individuals that may be victims or perpetrators of abuse.
Shane Cuthbert also works with adults experiencing and/or perpetrating domestic and family violence as the main facilitator of adult male mentoring sessions on behalf of domestic violence anonymous. A service reducing and preventing domestic violence through peer support, education and mentorship for individuals that may be victims or perpetrators of abuse.
Former Youth Offender
As a former youth offender, now law graduate, I advocate regularly for the Cairns community on the issues of youth crime, having spoken to various Queensland Parliamentary Inquiries in the past. We don’t have any programs or facilities open past 11pm, even though crime peaks between 12am and 2am. I have been advocating for a 24 hour youth centre for sometime, perhaps a NEW Council will support such a program and offer one of its halls, community spaces or properties to be used for this purpose.
I was one of those kids. I was disadvantaged, physically and sexually abused, bullied and went down the wrong pathway in life. I lived and breathed crime and now I’m on the other side, I know what works and what doesn’t, I believe it will take someone like me in a position of influence to make a difference in this space. Hopefully come March 16, I will have enough community support behind me to make this happen.
I was one of those kids. I was disadvantaged, physically and sexually abused, bullied and went down the wrong pathway in life. I lived and breathed crime and now I’m on the other side, I know what works and what doesn’t, I believe it will take someone like me in a position of influence to make a difference in this space. Hopefully come March 16, I will have enough community support behind me to make this happen.
"I will continue to advocate for services that reduce youth offending, this is something I understand well, I've been there and I've done it, but I do not support the Queensland State Government decision to build a youth detention centre in Edmonton, Cairns" - Shane Cuthbert
Reducing Youth Crime through Lived Experience
Shane Cuthbert has gained millions of views on TikTok for his personal lived experience videos, depicting real life experiences inside prisons, the justice system, youth offending and overcoming adversity and trauma. As a former youth crime offender, once sentenced by fellow independent Candidate for Division 8 and former Magistrate Pat O'Shane, Shane Cuthbert, now President of the CQU Law Society understands youth offending behaviour, its causes and prevention.
On a number of occassions, The Queensland Parliament has invited Shane Cuthbert to speak with MPs and share his personal insight with committees on various issues affecting Queenslanders such as youth crime.
LawToks Project
As a representative of the Business and Law faculty of CQU, Shane Cuthbert was invited to visit schools and community organisations in Rockhampton to present the LawToks project, to young people identified as ‘at high risk’ of police interactions. CQU’s involvement in the project was requested by the Durumbul Youth Network in collaboration with Child Safety and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Community Leaders in Rockhampton, following community consultations in 2020. Shane Cuthbert was the only law student from CQU involved, and his legal advice was relied upon by CQU drama students who created short, fun and engaging videos depicting ‘real life’ scenarios in order to better educate young people about their rights and responsibilities when dealing with police. A project supported by Cairns MP Michael Healy.
"I'm not afraid to stand up for what's right and hold our State and Federal politicians accountable", "I've taken a discrimination claim against the Australian Labor Party all the way to the High Court of Australia" - Shane Cuthbert
Rising Costs of Living
Shane Cuthbert supported Cairns Councillor Rob Pyne's vote against raising Council Rates given the rising costs of living and stress experienced by renters and home owners. An independent Council will support social housing in Cairns through local investment and development. Currently, the Cairns Regional Council waives thousands in development fees for wealthy developers and a NEW Council could impose restrictions on developers that would see a % of their new developments dedicated towards social housing in order to recieve those discounts or, consider imposing those fees in order for Council to invest in its own social housing investment strategy.
Shane Cuthbert supported Cairns Councillor Rob Pyne's vote against raising Council Rates given the rising costs of living and stress experienced by renters and home owners. An independent Council will support social housing in Cairns through local investment and development. Currently, the Cairns Regional Council waives thousands in development fees for wealthy developers and a NEW Council could impose restrictions on developers that would see a % of their new developments dedicated towards social housing in order to recieve those discounts or, consider imposing those fees in order for Council to invest in its own social housing investment strategy.
"As someone who has experienced homelessness in Cairns, i stand with Cairns residents experiencing rent and mortgage stress", "We currently waive thousands in fees for wealthy developers and its time we supported those struggling to keep a roof over their heads" - Shane Cuthbert
Homelessness
Homelessness is something Shane Cuthbert understands all too well, as someone who has been homeless and in 2018, homeless in Cairns. Shane remembers his experiences very clearly, catching Dengue Fever after spending the night sleeping at Muddy's playground on the esplanade after being told by staff at the Cairns Emergency Department 'you can't sleep here' and spending a few nights in the skatepark, experiences he shared speaking at last years Vinnies CEO community Sleepout.
Shane Cuthbert was eventually supported by community organisations and facilities such as OzCare and the Quigley St homeless shelter (now in disrepair) and would like to see more investment into social housing at the local level. Shane can relate to those whom have been forced onto the streets, through no fault of their own and was part of an Inter-University team, that last year developed a prototype app, addressing the needs of those doing it tough.
THE biggest issues affecting residents are youth crime, housing affordability, availability and the cost of living.
The Council currently spends 3.6 million dollars per year on its CitySafe security patrols I think is a waste of money. Time and time again I have witnessed these security officers neglect and step over the disadvantaged and displaced in town, calling the police only when there has been an incident.
The Police do not run a taxi service and I would like to see funding allocated to services that address the needs of those displaced in our CBD whilst cleaning it up at the same time. Perhaps services that involve operating a bus that takes disadvantaged residents to diversionary, homeless shelters, hospital and other services located outside of our CBD.
Despite this, we fund a golf buggy used by the police and security officers to fetch the lunch orders at a cost of 250k and a hybrid vehicle at a cost of 350k
More money Council could be saving, reducing rates and the cost of living in Cairns. The current Unity led Council raised rates by a whopping 6% last year and have earmarked another 5.7% next year..
The Council currently spends 3.6 million dollars per year on its CitySafe security patrols I think is a waste of money. Time and time again I have witnessed these security officers neglect and step over the disadvantaged and displaced in town, calling the police only when there has been an incident.
The Police do not run a taxi service and I would like to see funding allocated to services that address the needs of those displaced in our CBD whilst cleaning it up at the same time. Perhaps services that involve operating a bus that takes disadvantaged residents to diversionary, homeless shelters, hospital and other services located outside of our CBD.
Despite this, we fund a golf buggy used by the police and security officers to fetch the lunch orders at a cost of 250k and a hybrid vehicle at a cost of 350k
More money Council could be saving, reducing rates and the cost of living in Cairns. The current Unity led Council raised rates by a whopping 6% last year and have earmarked another 5.7% next year..
For the latest Media Releases CLICK HERE
"I'm not afraid to tell it how it is and I'm not afraid of the State and Federal Governments, Ive had guns to my head (literally) before and I'm not afraid to stand up for what is fair, right, just and equal even when I don't like those outcomes" - Shane Cuthbert
Transparency
As a former youth crime offender now reformed, Shane Cuthbert says he 'will continue to be open, honest and transparent on all issues'. Shane has a substantial following across social media platforms such as Instagram and Facebook, with millions of views across his TikTok, where he shares his personal experiences with prisons, the justice system, youth offending and overcoming adversity and trauma quite openly.
Accessability
Shane Cuthbert also intends to be an accessable Councillor, personally funding a public office where concerned residents can contact Shane and share their concerns directly. Shane says 'after speaking with residents in my area, it has become quite clear to me that they feel unheard and have had difficulties contacting thier local representatives'.
Accountability
Fed up with local and State politicians who regularly shift the blame onto each other, regarding proposals to better support the youth and reduce youth crime offending in Cairns, Shane says "No more its a State or Federal issue, if it is happening in Cairns, it is OUR issue and I wont shift the blame when issues are controversial or 'tough'. Tough decisions are what elected officials are elected to make.
Local Councillors are quick to shift the blame to State and Federal Governments but there are things a NEW Council can do in these spaces. Council currently spends millions of dollars worth of rate payer monies supporting a Queensland Police golf buggy on the esplanade, a hybrid vehicle and extensive CBD security contracts. These funds can be better allocated towards local Council programs aimed at addressing issues such as youth crime and homelessness within the CBD.
For the latest Media Releases CLICK HERE
"Recognised at the Cairns Citizen of the Year Awards in 2021 and 2023 for my volunteering contributions, i will continue to volunteer whilst working to introduce more Council support services, programs and eco-friendly community spaces" - Shane Cuthbert
Volunteer of the Year and COVID-19 Community Care Awards in 2021.
In 2019 during COVID-19, Shane Cuthbert assisted The Salvation Army, Anglicare and Cairns Helpers Helping Those In Quarantine, receiving and distributing donated items of food and toiletries across Cairns. As Cairns Helpers Helping those in Quarantine organisers had family members with immune deficiencies, and could no longer continue accepting donations Shane opened up his business, to be used as a food ’drop off’ point where canned goods and toiletries were carefully sought into ‘care packages’ for delivery across Cairns where Shane personally delivered many ‘care packages’ to the most vulnerable, elderly, at risk and immune compromised families in Cairns.
As a Community Volunteer
Over the last four years, Shane Cuthbert has volunteered with the Salvation Army, Red Cross, Australian Marine Conservation Society, COUCH, Cairns Helpers Helping Those in Quarantine, Lifeline, Australian Youth Climate Coalition Cairns, Cairns and Far North Environment Centre, Domestic Violence Anonymous, Tangaroa Blue and Greenpeace. He has also volunteered with the Cairns Ironman event, Crankworx, the Reef Restoration Foundation, Mayor Bob Manning's Christmas Appeal and many others.
Speaking publicly at the St Vincent De Paul Societies CEO Sleepout and Lifeline's Out of the Shadows, suicide prevention events this year, Shane says that "through volunteering, individuals have the power to help themselves whilst helping others", a powerful statement. Shane Cuthberts commitment to volunteering in communities spans more than 20 years.
Not only does Shane Cuthbert do a lot of volunteering work for organisations in Cairns, but he also does a lot of extra-curricular (unpaid volunteer) work on behalf of those in the local community not currently supported or inadequately supported by NGOs and Government services as an advocate for human rights and a law student. Again, a long list which includes but is not limited to;
Business Community Leader
Shane Cuthbert Contributed to an economic stimulus plan, presented to state and federal leaders during the COVID-19 pandemic on behalf of the Cairns Young Chamber of Commerce and was asked to join the Business Liaison Association's year 11 and 12 business planning competition as a Judge following the passing of long time supporter and organiser, Sandy Whyte.
Indigenous and Environmental Community
Shane Cuthbert has been heavily supportive of the greater Cairns community, standing side by side with indigenous leaders during Black Lives Matter protests, holding a candle for young Cassius outside the Cairns Library, protesting climate inaction during UNESCO's visit to Cairns, speaking to victims of crime who gathered outside the Cairns Convention Centre during the Queensland Parliamentary visit and, the list goes on. Over the past four years, Shane Cuthbert has made quite the name for himself as a community leader and advocate.
On Indigenous Rights, The Cairns Regional Council recently voted down a reconciliation plan becuase of references to 'the Voice' and 'Path to Treaty'. This, a Council with the largest percentage of First Nations Peoples in any other Council area throughout Queensland. Shane Cuthbert, as part of a NEW Cairns Regional Council will support a reconciliation plan.
For the latest Media Releases CLICK HERE
AWAKENING IN HEALTH
Dennis from Awakening in Health chats with Local Council Candidate, Shane Cuthbert about his journey in getting here. Incarcerated in his early 20's, Shane survived a horrendous prison experience and dramatically changed his direction in life. Now a business owner in the community, finishing a double degree in Law and Psychology. There are serious and dangerous plans taking place in society, cashless, Smart Cities, Social Credit etc. What can we do about it? Well, Shane is leading by example by turning his life around and joining the fight for truth and justice.
Video Courtesy Awakening in Health Youtube
ROCKSTAR DAD Show
Shane Cuthbert was recently invited to share his personal story, thoughts, struggles, and lessons learnt overcoming adversity, with Gary Wiseman and Jaret Reddick of Grammy Nominated Punk Rock band, 'Bowling for Soup' on the Rockstar Dad Show.
Video Courtesy Rockstar Dad Show Youtube
Community leader
Shane Cuthbert has been recognised as an emerging leader in the local Cairns community and as a business leader nationally. Shane is a member of political groups and has contributed to state and federal policy via membership with the Australian Labor Party. Shane Cuthbert is also a member of the United Nations Association of Australia's QLD Division, the Cairns Agricultural, Pastoral and Mining Association, the Cairns Historical Society and the Cairns Art Society. CLICK HERE to learn more.
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ADVOCATE
As an advocate for Mental Health, Youth, Human Rights, the Environment, Justice & Equality locally, nationally and internationally, Shane Cuthbert holds many memberships, committee roles and board positions with various organisations. CLICK HERE to learn more.
PHILANTHROPist & Humanitarian
Shane Cuthbert personally established 'Shane Cuthbert's Change the World Foundation', supporting the United Nations 'Global Goals' program supporting seventeen charitable associations and organisations internationally and also, 'Domestic Violence Anonymous', an organisation actively involved in reducing the harm, danger and prevalence of domestic violence in Australia. The organisation supports male perpetrators and victims of domestic violence. CLICK HERE to learn more.
AUTHOR
As an author, Shane Cuthbert has successfully published a wide range of titles available as eBooks, audiobooks, hard and soft covers in more than 84 countries worldwide, donating one hundred percent of all eBook proceeds to charity. CLICK HERE for a full list of published works and information regarding where and how you can purchase.
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Volunteer
Shane Cuthbert has a long volunteering history beginning with the RDA (Riding for Disabled) and the Animal Welfare League more than twenty years ago. Shane Cuthbert regularly volunteers his time to local organisations in Cairns and supports many causes, actions and fundraising events. CLICK HERE to learn more.
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Student
Shane has completed various business, legal and human rights studies at Harvardx and the University of Queenlsand through edX. Shane Cuthbert is currently completing a bachelor of Laws and Psychology at Central Queensland University where he holds various positions and roles. CLICK HERE to learn more.
ENTREPRENUER AND BUSINESS LEADER
As an entreprenuer, Shane Cuthbert owns and operates four successful private companies and multiple small businesses in Australia. Shane has taken many ventures through the fundamental stages of startup, research, development and growth, in multiple industries and markets. Shane Cuthbert has an extensive knowledge of local, national and international business, providing valuable business advise to others through his coaching business and was recently invited to judge the Cairns Junior and Senior Business Planning Competitions on behalf of the Business Liason Association. CLICK HERE to learn more.
