Emmaus College year 9 students have held their first question time with politicians from the local area this week.
Member for Wright Scott Buchholz and division 4 councillor Laurie Koranski were the first to take to the Q&A forum.
Member for Logan Linus Power and division 11 councillor Trevina Schwarz will be in the hot seats next week.
SOSE teaching and learning leader Robyn Coase said the students’ questions highlighted concerns about the environmental and social impacts of proposed developments, including local housing projects and the Adani Carmichael coal mine.
“As part of their SOSE studies, students are investigating the economic, social and environmental costs and benefits of a range of developments in Queensland, including the topical Inland Rail,” she said.
“Their independent studies will examine the viability of the Queens Wharf Development or the Adani Carmichael coal mine.
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Ms Coase said councillor Koranski had explained to the students how state and local governments share the management of new developments like Yarrabilba and highlighted how council worked to support residents and businesses in the area.
“Mr Buchholz described to the children how economic benefit is an important factor in deciding which development projects are viable and was able to point out some arguments for the economic and social benefits of the Adani project,” she said.
“Students assured him that they would remember his formula for Gross Domestic Product and would apply this as part of their investigation into the new developments.”
Ms Coase said the students were impressed that the politicians took time out to teach them about the workings of the Australian political system and how developments were approved and funded.
Mr Buchholz said he enjoyed the opportunity to participate in the Q&A forum.
“The students asked some tough questions and made some excellent points,” he said.
“It was great to hear their thoughts on the social and economic issues we are facing.
“It was wonderful to see the students so informed and invested in our region, their enthusiasm and fresh ideas make me confident that our future is very bright.”
