Dawson in His DNA

Andrew Willcox MP

When the polls closed on Saturday, 3 May 2025, Andrew Willcox stood before his Dawson community humbled, proud, and quietly resolute. Re-elected for a second term, the moment was a blend of gratitude and grit; elation at the faith shown in him by the people of Dawson, and disappointment at seeing Labor retain government nationally.

He knew what lay ahead: another term in opposition, and another term of asking hard questions on behalf of those who feel unheard: Questions about spiralling energy costs, lack of bulk-billing GPs, and the shocking condition of the Bruce Highway.

But for Andrew, this is more than a job. It’s a calling rooted in community, empathy, and action.

“I’m a bit of a people pleaser,” he laughs, “but in politics, that’s not such a bad thing.

“The best part is when you can make someone’s life better, when a constituent walks into the office with a problem, and you can actually fix it.”

Politically, one of the year’s proudest milestones came with Andrew’s appointment as Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability, a portfolio that fits his hands-on style like a glove.

He’s spent the year touring factory floors, innovation hubs, and workshops; seeing firsthand how Australian manufacturers are adapting to compete on a global stage.

One standout, Andrew said, is M&P Services from Mackay, a company producing high-quality transportable buildings.

“They’re proof that regional manufacturing can help solve national problems, even something as big as the housing crisis.

“It’s Australian know-how with social purpose.”

Serving a second term means less time learning the ropes, more time shaping policy. With networks built and systems in place, Andrew has thrown his energy into the issues that matter most to his electorate and to Australia: Energy reliability, regional infrastructure, and sovereign strength.

He also believes in politics at eye level, which is why you’ll find him not only in Parliament House, but also in Bowen’s supermarket aisles.

“I like doing the grocery run when I’m home, it’s where people catch you for a chat,” he says.

“Though if it’s 35 degrees and I’ve got ice cream in the trolley, I might have to make it a quick gidday.”

The proudest personal moment of Andrew’s year was walking his daughter, Shannon, down the aisle.

“I’ve got three kids, two boys and one girl, and I’m exceptionally proud of them all.

“Shannon’s wedding was an emotional day because we’re a close family. Our boys, Jack and Tom, were groomsmen, it was a special moment for us all.”

Family grounds him, especially in a job that rarely stops. He works seven days a week, with precious downtime spent fishing, tinkering in the yard, throwing a pot in the creek for mud crabs and making memories with family.

Q&A with Andrew Willcox

Greatest challenge this year?

“Getting stranded in parts of the electorate when the Bruce Highway closes from flooding or accidents. I cover one of the largest electorates in the country and do more kilometres than most MPs on one of the worst stretches of road in Australia. I’ll never stop barracking for the Bruce.”

Greatest moment this year?

“Watching Gilmour Space launch its first rocket from Bowen. The data collected from that launch will shape the future of Australia’s space industry, and that’s critical for our sovereign capability.”

Why do you do what you do?

“The most touching moments are visiting people in aged care, doing what we can to make their final years comfortable and dignified. They paved the way for us; the least we can do is look after them.”

Sum Dawson up in one word.

“Opportunity.

“It’s everywhere you look; in our industries, our people, and our potential.”

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