Let's go surfing

Yesterday Tony Abbott sent a campaign email entitled, "We will stop the boats." Ahead in the polls, he's announced that the Pacific Solution will return on day one of an Abbott Government. It seems Tony Abbott has a lot to say on refugees, except to those he promised to meet in June after GetUp members won a charity auction.

GetUp members chipped in more than $16,000 to help secure the winning bid in a charity auction for a surfing lesson and meeting with Tony Abbott. We gave the prize to a group of refugees because we know how powerful human stories are. But his office, having suggested the meeting would occur before the election, have now stopped returning our calls. They are refusing to hold up their end of the deal.

If Tony Abbott won't come to meet us, we've got to go and meet him. That's why today, with your help, we'll begin rolling out (literally - they're mobile!) massive billboards to follow him around on the campaign trail and remind him of his broken promise to go surfing for charity with a group of refugees.

Check out what the billboards say by clicking here and chip in to help us make it happen:

http://www.getup.org.au/campaign/HonourYourCommitment

We know it is only fair that Tony Abbott meet with Riz Wakil. After all, he promised to do so. When Mr Abbott's Press Secretary told us that Mr Abbott would like to have the meeting before the election, and that he would ring back to confirm a date, we took him at his word. But after repeated phone calls from us - that his office have now stopped returning - its time for us to up the ante.

With a week and a half left there's still time for Mr Abbott to meet his commitment before the election. That's why with your help we'll take a message to him that he can't miss: massive mobile billboards asking him to honour his commitment and meet with Riz.

You've stood behind Riz before - can you stand up for him again?

http://www.getup.org.au/campaign/HonourYourCommitment

The $16,000 cheque for charity? Signed, sealed and delivered. The refugees? Although a little nervous, they're ready for the meeting! The only thing missing is Tony Abbott.

Together, let's make it clear where we stand - its time for Mr Abbott to make good on his promise. We've had a victorious fortnight so far this election campaign, with wins on enrolment and internet censorship. With your help we'll return our focus to the vital issues surrounding refugees and asylum seekers.

Thanks for all you do,
The GetUp team

P.S. Tony Abbott has commissioned billboards of his own. They are driving our marginal seats attempting to scare voters into thinking we're being invaded by 'illegals'. With your help we'll respond to the fear mongering in these last few days before the election.