Championing Change With Cr Alison Jones

Cr Alison Jones has always had a heart for community, advocating for those whose voices often go unheard. For decades, she has dedicated herself to ensuring her community is seen and represented, approaching every challenge with resilience and a keen eye for what’s right.

Her journey into public service was not only driven by personal ambition, but by a deep-seated love for the people and places around her.

“I didn’t see myself as a politician,” Alison admits. But when the community encouraged her to run for council, she realised that her unique perspective and passion had the power to shift the atmosphere and make a difference.

“After about a year, I realised the community voted me in for a reason – they saw something in me that I didn’t see in myself.”

Alison’s career has been defined by persistence, advocacy, and an innate ability to connect with people. Though she never had a strong interest in academics, she brought something irreplaceable to her role – her heart for community. She has been the type of leader who shows up, time and time again, fighting for what she knows is right.

From an early age, Alison found herself in male-dominated industries, never allowing barriers to deter her from pushing forward. Now, she encourages younger generations of women to embrace their purpose, find their voice, and step into roles that once seemed out of reach.

Although she never had children of her own, Alison has poured her energy into nurturing and uplifting her community. While some may assume she missed out, Alison sees things from a different lens. She believes her role as a community leader has allowed her to create a broader family through the connections she’s made.

“Others might assume I’ve missed out, but I think everything happens for a reason, and I’m very happy with the way that my life has panned out.”

She and her husband have travelled the world, built a fulfilling life, and left an undeniable impact on the region she calls home.

Her legacy is evident in the many community initiatives she has backed. She was among the few voices who pushed for the development of the Bluewater Lagoon before its inception, recognising the need for a space where families could gather and enjoy the outdoors.

“The Bluewater Lagoon is there because of three or four people – me being one of them – who fought hard to get it.”

Alison even played a key role in bringing Orange Sky Laundry to Mackay, ensuring those experiencing homelessness had access to basic hygiene services.

Through years of volunteering and service, Alison has remained unshakable in her belief that even in the face of adversity, there is always a silver lining.

“I’ve learnt over the years, that when you’re met with a negative, just know that there’s always a silver lining somewhere down the track.”

As a councillor, a volunteer, and a woman of heart, Alison Jones continues to shine a light on the issues of Mackay and fight for what’s right in her community.

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