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A Fair Go For Farrer: A pivotal moment for independent representation

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This column - as part of a campaign paid for by community members - will be published in local newspapers in the lead-up to the Farrer by-election, highlighting the importance of getting effective representation in Federal Parliament for our region.

It will encourage community participation – to write to your local paper and express an opinion, or highlight your experiences. This by-election is a unique opportunity; we cannot afford to waste it.

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And so crunch time has arrived. This is it … the week when we will vote for the next Member for Farrer.

Last week I wrote what I thought was the final column in the Fair Go For Farrer series, but I was then reminded that this final week is more significant than any other throughout the campaign. So with encouragement, this week there will be a couple of final thoughts.

Firstly, as I have said many times over past weeks, please give very careful consideration to your vote. This is a vital election that needs to set us on the right path forward; to start our vision for the next 20 years.

It is no secret that I am supporting the Independent candidate Michelle Milthorpe. Michelle is honest and genuine, with a proven record for advocating on behalf of her community. She is not on an ego trip; not trying to establish a retirement fund; not forced to vote against the best interests of her electorate because it does not suit the political priorities of party leaders.

We have been let down by party politics and it is time for that to end. It is time for Farrer to have Independent representation that fights for Farrer and ensures Farrer is the number one priority.

I have extreme concerns about the possibility of One Nation representation, and all I can say to those who are considering One Nation is to do your research thoroughly, and make sure this is what you want for Farrer.

During the campaign, I believe there have been too many concerns raised about the One Nation candidate – ranging from misogynistic comments, to sharing raunchy material on social media, and a checkered past of political support.

Only last year, he endorsed Michelle Milthorpe and media reports tell us only a few years ago he wanted to run for Labor, and I believe he previously had ties with The Nationals. Will he really be committed to Farrer, or has the One Nation surge provided a convenient political opportunity? And what happens if he is elected and realises he is not aligned to One Nation policies after all? Does he look for another party? Where does that leave Farrer?

Let’s not get caught again with a Member for Farrer who does not have their entire focus on our electorate’s many challenges.

In closing, again I would like to thank everyone for the incredible feedback I have had to this column over the past couple of months. It is heartening that so may people have actively engaged in this by-election campaign because they want change and a positive future for Farrer. Best wishes to all candidates as we go to the polls this week, in an election that will have a defining impact on our future.

- Contributed by Vicki Meyer

• Authorised by Vicki Meyer, ‘Werrina’, 14 McCallum Road, Warragoon NSW 2710.