Freedom of opinion has always been a cornerstone of democracy. Yet in recent times — from Australian marches, politicians being demoted, tragic shootings in the US, to our very own public debates on Facebook — it feels like genuine debate has been replaced with shouting matches and personal attacks. Social media in particular has amplified division, where differing views are often “howled down” rather than discussed.
Why does this matter to the property industry and Hervey Bay? Because if we want a bright future for our region, we need to create space for real conversation. Progress comes from open debate, the sharing of ideas, and the courage to think outside the box. When people are too afraid to voice fresh perspectives, we lose the chance to innovate.
Hervey Bay is filled with talented people from across Australia and the world, many of whom have seen better planning, smarter infrastructure, and more successful approaches elsewhere. Yet too often they stay quiet, wary of being attacked personally instead of having their ideas debated on merit. This silence comes at a cost.
NIMBYism (Not In My Backyard) is alive and well, and while everyone has a right to their say, shutting down change simply because it challenges personal preferences prevents good planning, better housing, and new jobs. Yes, there will always be projects we don’t like — but the bigger picture isn’t about the individual. It’s about what’s best for the region as a whole, for economic growth, and for the generations that will come after us.
If we can restore the art of respectful debate, Hervey Bay will be better placed to shape a future that balances vision, progress, and community needs.
