The Pastoral Times has seen an unprecedented number of local leaders invested in a campaign for political change - both in NSW and federally - with some committing their own finances.
They argue they are not seeing any meaningful changes from Coalition governments and their representatives — NSW Member for Murray Austin Evans and Federal Member for Farrer Sussan Ley.
They argue that both rely too heavily on the historic Coalition safe seat status in this district, and so all the effort and promises go to marginal seats.
The campaigning started with the formation of Voices for Farrer earlier this year, specifically targeting the Federal Government elections which are tipped to be held in May.
In has since spilled over to a state campaign, which will come to a head when NSW goes to the polls this Saturday.
Mr Evans is being challenged by another nine candidates — also an unprecedented amount of interest in recent history.
Deniliquin community leaders calling for change include local businessman Lester Wheatley and farmer and Murray-Darling Basin Plan balance campaigner Louise Burge.
Mrs Burge — who is actively supporting Shooters, Fishers and Farmers candidate Helen Dalton — said the constant dismissal of Basin Plan concerns and potential solutions has generated a growing feeling of discontent.
‘‘I haven’t just gone to governments — all levels — with problems, I have always taken issues with a potential solution that should not have been that difficult,’’ Mrs Burge said.
‘‘If the government worked in collaboration it could implement some changes in the plan, to help reduce the social and economic impacts.
‘‘For eight years I have self funded all efforts to put forward constructive solutions, and each of those solutions is being thwarted by internal party politics.
‘‘There is a sign of general discontent in politics from all persuasions, and the real question is ‘can I afford not to’ (campaign for change)?’’
Voices for Farrer, founded and led by Barooga farmer and Southern Riverina Irrigators chairman Chris Brooks, campaigned for and now endorses an independent candidate for the seat.
Its members have funded an office in Deniliquin’s CBD to spread its message, with more expected to be opened across the electorate.
‘‘We’re seeing this (more people campaigning against sitting candidates) because the whole region has been let down by the incumbent leaders,’’ Mr Brooks said.
‘‘The lack of support for this district — in roads, in communication, on water — is third world.
‘‘When you get involved with a group like Southern Riverina Irrigators, which spreads over a bigger area, you run in to such a level of incompetence and a lack of compassion. I have been flabbergasted by the lack of respect and care.
‘‘Because they wouldn’t listen to our concerns, I decided it was about time we put someone in that will listen.
‘‘Vicki Myer who runs our Deniliquin Voices for Farrer office tells me she gets, on average, 15 converts each day (in to the office).
‘‘People feel let down, and they are reaching out for someone to listen and act.’’
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