Emissions targets, climate change and fracking look set to be front of mind for voters in the WA seat of Fremantle, after the politically divisive issues dominated a debate hosted by the University of Notre Dame Australia.
The Great Debate: Local Leadership at a Crossroads gave candidates the opportunity to front voters and outline their vision for Fremantle ahead of the 8 March State election.
Labor Minister Simon McGurk, independent Kate Hulett, Greens candidate Felicity Townsend and the Animal Justice Party's Natashia Boland took part in the frank and open debate in front of about 300 people.
Speaking to a packed Tannock Hall, the candidates outlined their passions and credentials in a bid to convince voters they were the right person to represent Fremantle for the next term of government.
Issues relating to climate and the environment were repeatedly raised, while audience members also questioned candidates on housing and the funding of local schools.
Notre Dame's Executive Dean of the Faculty of Arts, Sciences, Law and Business, Martin Drum, said it was great to see such a strong turnout from the community.
"This is indicative of the fact that there is fierce competition for the seat, and that voters wanted to hear more from the candidates," he said.
"Having their policies and candidacy put under the microscope is a robust process so it was pleasing to see four of the candidates present themselves for scrutiny."
The event was expertly moderated by Fremantle Chamber of Commerce Chief Executive Officer Chrissie Maus, Professor Drum and former Supreme Court and Federal Court Judge, the Hon Michael Barker KC.
