THE statistics may show we are fighting an uphill battle against the bulge but the candidates for the Southern Downs say they will not let this become the legacy to our children.

Warwick currently holds the state's most unwanted tag, Queensland's fattest town, however the six men and women vying for your vote on Saturday want to help the Rose City shed the weighty title.

Targeting health services and preventative programs have been touted as two possible plans of attack, while two candidates say the people of our region just need to control what they are putting in their mouths.

Labor candidate Joel Richters said it was an issue that needed to be faced head-on.

"The only way obesity rates will be addressed is by investing in health services,” Mr Richters said.

"The SDRC is working hard to renew park and recreational facilities and community groups on the scene to tackle it.

"We need to find funding and assistance to maximise participation, not just focus for the middle class of society, but for the battlers as well. Council employing a community nutritionist to develop and run community programs would be great.”

Greens candidate Antonia van Geuns said prevention was key. "We need to make sure preventative medical procedures are well funded and community health programs are fully funded,” Ms van Geuns said.

"Education in schools on lifestyle, diet and physical exercise are key preventative methods.

"More time away from the desk at work provided they stick with healthy lifestyles, as people are more prone to healthy choices if they are less tired. Encouraging people to grow their own food discourages fast food.”

Independent candidate Rob Mackenzie said he would use his council experience to drive initiatives.

"I encourage any funding towards any sporting organisations, and building more bike paths and walkways.”

But being proactive is something One Nation candidate Josh Coyne says residents needed to do.

"It is your responsibility for what you put in your mouth,” Mr Coyne said.

"They can't blame anyone else, and shouldn't be a part of the taxpayer's problem.

"It does help to raise awareness programs and the importance of those for children.”

Independent candidate Jay Nauss took a similar stance. "If anyone thinks the government can solve all their problems, they're whistling in the wind,” he said. "It is an individual responsibility. Community organisations can help people, but governments taxing things such as sugar doesn't work.

"They could look at teaching cooking skills and nutrition in high school.”

LNP candidate James Lister said a growing economy could help. "If there is a correlation between socio-economic status and income towards obesity, working towards growing the economy will be a big factor,” Mr Lister said.

"Having people engaged, working and making money to ensure they have the lifestyle they deserve.”