It’s been a fascinating experience.
The local interest in the by-election was evident at the ‘Meet the Candidates’ forum last week, and it was an honour to be involved in this event, in conjunction with NSW Farmers.
The candidates were all passionate, and I am sure they all want what is best for the electorate of Farrer.
But in my short time in this role, and listening to feedback from our readers, it is obvious there are political challenges that must be addressed.
It is also clear there is a general view that the representation on our behalf, in particular key issues like water and health, has not been strong enough over the past 20 years.
The Liberal Party was the architect of the Water Act (2007) which delivered a Basin Plan that has badly let our community down. That is indisputable.
Over recent weeks I have tried to engage with the Liberal Party campaign team, including trying to highlight ways in which local newspapers can be part of their campaign, but there has been a concerning level of disinterest.
Perhaps it is this same disinterest to our community in general over a longer period that will play a role in delivering us a non-Coalition local Member of Parliament for the first time in the electorate’s history.
Or perhaps the Liberal Party has given up, knowing it cannot retain Farrer, as the polls are indicating.
Though at least they are having a crack, which is more than we can say for a weak Labor Party which thinks so little of our electorate that it does not even stand a candidate.
If the polls are accurate, our region will soon be represented by either One Nation’s David Farley or Independent Michelle Milthorpe.
I have had the pleasure of dealing with both individuals throughout the campaign, and believe either one will work with passion to bring about change in Farrer.
And it is hard to argue against the need for change.
Preferences will likely decide whether Milthorpe or Farley wins the seat, so we encourage everyone to think very carefully about how your preferences are distributed.
If you agree that it is time for different representation, perhaps ignore recommendations and preference the leading two candidates with a first and second vote.
This will help ensure we have change, and send a strong message to the major parties, in particular Liberals, that we refuse to be taken for granted.
We live in a wonderful town with a lifestyle that would be the envy of many.
However, like other rural communities we need politicians who pay more attention to our unique needs.
From my short time in this role at the PT and SRN, it seems that attention has been lacking, and this by-election presents an opportunity to move in a different direction.
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