Today, I visited Paradise—not in the usual sense, but the suburb of Paradise, where around 150 people gathered to hear the four candidates for Sturt speak at a well-organized forum hosted by Doctors for the Environment. It was an enlightening event that reaffirmed my decision to support Dr. Verity Cooper.
I initially joined Verity’s campaign because I’ve admired the impact of Community Independents (commonly referred to as Teals) in federal politics. While I can’t vote for leaders like Zali Steggall, Dr. Sophie Scamps, Zoe Daniel, or Dr. Monique Ryan, I was thrilled to see a Teal candidate emerge in my own electorate. Early interactions with Verity—both online and during a park run where she nearly walked me off my feet—convinced me she was a candidate worth supporting. As a retired scientist with an analytical mindset, I wanted to see how she compared to her competitors.
The Candidates on Display
The forum featured four candidates: Dr. Verity Cooper (Independent), Katie McCusker (Greens), Claire Clutterham (Labor), and James Stevens (Liberal). Each had their moment, but Verity stood out for her passion, directness, and depth of knowledge on key issues. She tackled questions head-on and demonstrated her commitment to climate action, healthcare reform, and intergenerational equity—values that resonate deeply with me.
Verity’s authenticity shone through as she emphasized the need for politicians who are not bound by outdated party policies. Her stance contrasted sharply with the other candidates:
- Katie McCusker (Greens): A likeable candidate with commendable policies but constrained by the need to adhere to party-prepared statements.
- Claire Clutterham (Labor): Dignified but lacking the passion needed to stand out in a competitive political landscape.
- James Stevens (Liberal): Representing the status quo with a focus on nuclear energy—a stance that feels disconnected from progressive voters in Sturt.
A Model of Kindness and Leadership
One of Verity’s standout qualities is her emphasis on kindness as a guiding principle in politics. This reminded me of Jacinda Ardern, New Zealand’s former Prime Minister, who earned admiration worldwide for her compassionate leadership. It’s refreshing to see a candidate like Verity championing this approach in Australian politics.
Why Verity Cooper?
Verity’s campaign is grounded in community values rather than party politics. Her experience as a GP gives her unique insights into healthcare and community needs, while her commitment to environmental sustainability aligns with urgent global priorities. She represents a shift away from the divisive and transactional nature of traditional politics.
In conclusion, the forum solidified my belief that Dr. Verity Cooper is the best choice for Sturt. Her passion, integrity, and vision make her a standout candidate who can bring meaningful change to our electorate.
Jock Churchman