Today the State Member for Pine Rivers, Carolyn Male MP, announced that she will not be recontesting the next State election due on 24 March 2012.

Ms Male has stated that her decision has only been arrived at after a lengthy consideration of her health issues and the commitment and support that she feels needs to be given to her children as they enter the final phases of their education.
“This has been a difficult decision for me to make as I have enjoyed the opportunity to represent this great electorate and continue to be involved in many great social policy initiatives that the Bligh Labor Government has forged ahead with.
"Since I resigned from the Parliamentary Secretary for Education position in March 2010, the possibility of not recontesting the next election has always been at the back of my mind but at the time, I was more focused on restoring my health and still being an effective Member of Parliament for the people of Pine Rivers.
“Anna Bligh and the State Labor team have a difficult fight on their hands over the coming weeks and it will require every candidate to be in the field all day every day to win the support of the public.
“From now on, I need to focus on my two teenage daughters and ensuring their education and other opportunities are recognised, and I therefore cannot continue to put in the time that is required to ensure that Pine Rivers is represented by Labor for the next three years.
“During my time as a Member of Parliament, both in Glasshouse and Pine Rivers, I have had the opportunity to be involved with amazing communities who are focused on ensuring the needs of the community are met.  I have worked in a consultative way with my fellow colleagues and local councillors to provide infrastructure and sound policy decisions.
“My commitment to top quality education, prevention of domestic violence, job opportunities for all, and the environment and conservation will continue long after I have left Parliament.
“I have been privileged to work for my communities and have made many close friends over the past 11 years. 
“I will continue to work hard over the coming weeks and look forward to the return of a Labor Government to ensure that Queensland keeps moving ahead with infrastructure, jobs and good social outcomes.