Credit to Westen Downs Mayor for brave decision on refugees
OPINION: Yesterday we heard the news that a very generous Western Downs Mayor will open his region up to 1500 displaced Syrians.
Although 77% of his residents voted against the idea in an online poll, I'm in full support of anyone willing to lend a helping hand.
READ MORE: Western Downs welcomes refugees, South unlikely to follow
There's been a lot of talk about turning boats around, but what might need a change of direction is our attitude towards the topic.
For the first time since the Second World War the number of displaced people has reached more than 50 million, most of them forced to leave their homes by ongoing conflict.
Millions of families, women and children are fleeing war, looking for somewhere to keep safe and alive.
I definitely don't have the solution for this problem and I understand residents' fears, but I think a kind and warm country town like ours should discuss the option of becoming a refugee welcome zone.
It's a conversation that needs to be had and an issue we should all address.
We've heard from passionate residents in the past and organisations, including the St Mark's Anglican Church which has encouraged the idea.
I congratulate Cr Brown on his efforts to make a difference without getting caught up in political spin and public approval.
