2022-05-02
Fremantle candidate Felicity Townsend talks to Green Issue about why she decided to nominate and how her campaign is tracking
Tell us a few things about yourself.
I’ve lived in the Fremantle area for over four years now and enjoy the place. I share the house with my husband, two young adult children and a dog. My work is running community programs in Kwinana, my activism is all things Green (Willagee candidate in 2021) and I enjoy playing sports such as roller hockey.
Of all the reasons that motivated you to nominate, is there one that stands out? Why?
Climate change – The Greens are the only party responding to the urgent and serious action demanded by the science. Like many parents, I don’t want my children to live in a world racked by endless climate disasters.
Can you outline your campaign – your team leaders and the activities you’ve been engaged in.
I’m fortunate to have Dominic Firmager as my campaign manager and a number of committed and experienced campaigners supporting him. In addition, several new people have been recruited and some of these have joined the party during the campaign. A few of these have been very young, including three or four below the voting age. Their enthusiasm, quick learning, and awareness of the issues is remarkable. Doorknocking twice or three times every weekend (plus some mid-week afternoons) has been our core activity. Seven people would be an average number each time, though we’ve had ten or more on occasions. The Tuesday evening data entry parties at my house have been fun. We’ve been calling volunteers as well and now that we’re into the feverish last few weeks there are a couple of forums I’m attending and of course pre-polling looms large and long.
From the range of Greens ideas and policies you’ve presented to people, which seem to be getting the most positive response? Any ideas why?
Climate change is number one and I think it’s because people realise that the main parties just aren’t prepared to do enough. Making dental care and mental health free on Medicare comes in as a close second, especially as people recognise this would be an important part of addressing the cost of living problems they face.
Imagine it’s May 21st, the campaign is over, the results have come in. What would count for you as a good result for your electorate and the Greens across WA?
I’m hoping to increase The Greens vote in Fremantle to its highest ever, maybe breaking through the 20% barrier and putting us in striking distance of the Liberals. We pushed them into second place in Fremantle in the state election, but federal Fremantle is a tougher challenge. The bedrock definition of a good result is getting Dorinda Cox into the Senate and of course increasing our vote significantly in other key electorates.
Any plans for the first few days after May 21st?
Sure, a very long, very luxurious sleep-in on May 22nd. In fact on that day I’d like to be pampered at home and never venture past the front door.
Header photo: Felicity Townsend and Greens Tangney candidate Adam Abdul Razak relaxing after a doorknock