Hood embracing new challenge

FORMER Naracoorte local Lucy Hood’s meteoric rise in the South Australian Labor Party continued last month when the Member for Adelaide was elevated to the ministry, taking on the Climate, Environment and Water portfolio in Premier Peter Malinauskas’s latest cabinet reshuffle.

It heralds another chapter in the career of Lucy, who has community service in her blood.

“When you grow up in the South East, community is in your DNA,” Minister Hood said. “Giving back is something that’s not often spoken about directly – it’s simply just done. Whether that’s volunteering at your sporting club, helping out a neighbour or mate, or being a member of a service group or other community organisation. My upbringing has fostered a life-long commitment to giving back to our beautiful state in any way I can.”

It makes the environment portfolio a perfect fit.

“Much of my childhood was spent playing in Mary Seymour Conservation Park in Bool Lagoon, at the Naracoorte Caves and along the Naracoorte Creek, with summers spent at Kingston or Robe,” Minister Hood said. “Our society and economy are dependent on a healthy environment, and I am passionate about ensuring more people can get outdoors and enjoy nature. This will drive me every day.”

And she is in the hot seat right from the get go, given the State’s algal bloom and the associated issues for the wider community.

“I will be a strong voice for communities affected by the unprecedented algal bloom, and champion our local small businesses and seafood industry,” Minister Hood said. “At all times, I will be guided by the scientific evidence.”

Aside from the pressing issue of the algal bloom, Minister Hood also has one eye on the potential hosting of the international COP 31 climate conference.

“Our state is leading the nation, and indeed the world, in addressing climate change and reducing emissions,” she said. “I hope to showcase this work, and prepare our city, should Australia’s bid to host the international COP 31 climate conference be successful.

“Our local community cares deeply about climate, biodiversity and sustainability, which is why as local MP I have established new Pocket Parks and invested in community infrastructure like our brand-new Aquatic Centre that will be 100 per cent powered by renewable energy and return 1000sqm of Park Lands.”

Her new role will no doubt see Minister Hood facing off against brother and Shadow Minister for Government Accountability Ben Hood more regularly.

What she does know for sure, is she has a mountain of support as she takes this next step in her political career.

“I am truly grateful for the many kind messages and calls I’ve received since taking on this portfolio, and it is a privilege to serve as Minister and hit the ground running to support South Australians across our beautiful state.”