Premier Peter Beattie today welcomed the announcement that Brett Raguse would be endorsed by the Queensland ALP as their candidate for Beaudesert in the next State election.

“I think Brett will be a great candidate as he has lived and worked in the Beaudesert area for many years,” Mr Beattie said.

“I believe he can provide a strong voice in Government for local residents in the community.”

“I am behind him 100% because I know he will do a terrific job if elected.”

Mr Beattie said the ALP would endorse candidates for eleven State seats this afternoon.

He said as well as Beaudesert these seats included Burdekin, Burnett, Charters Towers, Gaven, Gladstone, Gregory, Lockyer, Maroochydore, Robina and Tablelands.

“The State election won’t be held until next year but I want our team chosen as soon as possible,” Mr Beattie said.

“Both our candidates and sitting members will have a big job ahead of them.

“We are working hard on getting the basics right in key areas such as health, education, and transport.

“For example, our $6.4 Billion Health Action Plan is a ground breaking blueprint for reform and will provide more doctors, nurses and allied health staff. It will buy new technology and equipment, maintain and improve hospitals and cut waiting lists.

“It will help build a better public health system in Queensland.

“We are committed to getting on with the job and our candidates and sitting members must prove to their local communities that they are willing to work hard and offer a stronger voice and better representation than alternative candidates.”