Craig Garland is an independent candidate for the Braddon electorate in Tasmania, Australia. Known for his dedicated advocacy for the communities of Tasmania, Garland has a diverse background, including owning a fish and chip shop.
His environmental campaign, particularly against industrial offshore aquaculture, has earned the approval of Bob Brown, a well-regarded environmentalist.
In the 2024 Tasmanian State Election, Garland emerged as a significant contender for the Braddon seat. Demonstrating a strong performance, he led the Greens with 0.58 quotas, positioning him just a moderate flow of preferences away from surpassing the fourth Liberal candidate and securing election as an Independent member for Braddon.
Garland's campaign has been marked by his strong opposition to industrial offshore aquaculture, which he views as detrimental to Tasmania's environment and communities. His stance against what he terms the "hijacking of democracy" by major parties for their survival underscores his self-description as an "anti-politician".
Among his policy positions, Garland advocates for raising the Newstart allowance, indicating his support for improved social welfare measures to assist Tasmania's less fortunate.
Further solidifying his environmental advocacy, Garland supports ending the industrial-scale logging of native forests in Tasmania. He promotes a transition to selective logging practices, aiming for sustainable forest management that preserves the state's natural heritage for the long term.