About George

A Mackay local since birth, George’s family are third generation cane farmers who originally emigrated from Denmark in 1901. With both parents being disability pensioners during his childhood, George developed a strong sense of social justice.
He was schooled in Andergrove, Walkerston and at Mackay State High before securing a university degree in journalism. He gained practical experience at community newspaper, The Pioneer News, before founding a successful publishing business producing two other community newspapers: Walkerston & Valley Advertiser and Northern Beaches Advertiser.

In 2004, George was elected to Mackay City Council and quickly developed a reputation as a fighter for his constituents. In 2008, strong community support gained him a seat on the amalgamated Mackay Regional Council.

George has extensive community involvement and is currently a director of the Mackay Regional Housing Company and Vice-President of Mackay Regional Council for Social Development. He was the foundation chair of Walkerston Community Kindergarten Association and former chair of HACC Transport Mackay Inc.

With family traditions in the Labor Party and his own involvement in two unions, George understands the needs of all members of the community and is committed to using his knowledge and experience to gain a better deal for everyone in Dawson.

Parliamentary Service

Elected to the House of Representatives for Dawson, Queensland, 2010.

Committee Service

House of Representatives Standing: Agriculture, Resources, Fisheries and Forestry from 25.10.10.

Joint Standing: Parliamentary Library from 25.10.10.

Party Positions

Member, Nationals (Qld) 1993-2008.

Member, Young Nationals (Qld) 1993-2008.

State President, Young Nationals (Qld) 2003-04.

Mackay Zone Vice-President, Nationals (Qld) 2007-08.

Member, Liberal National Party (Qld) from 2008.

Central Queensland Region Secretary, Liberal National Party (Qld) 2008-09.

Qualifications and Occupation before entering Federal Parliament

Bachelor of Communications (Journalism) (CQU).

Printing factory worker 2000.

Journalist 2000.

Press secretary 2001-04.

Councillor (see Local government service below) 2004-10.

Newspaper editor and publisher 2005-08.

Local Government Service

Councillor, City of Mackay 2004-08.

Councillor, Mackay Regional Council 2008-10.

Executive member, Urban Local Government Association 2008-10.