Kalgoorlie-Boulder now has its very own branch of The Nationals WA – the political party which holds the balance of power in State politics.
An inaugural AGM and public meeting was held at the historic Boulder Town Hall last Wednesday, with a public turnout “exceeding the expectations” of last year’s election candidates Tony Crook, Suzie Williams and Dave Grills.
Ms Williams said the strong response was indicative of the sentiment people had for The Nationals. “It just goes to show that the Nationals’ drive to keep regional areas vibrant resonates with the people of the Goldfields,” she said.
The meeting voted Tony Crook in as the inaugural Branch President; Bryce Greatorex as Treasurer and Suzie Williams Secretary.
Dave Grills and Tony Crook were appointed as the delegates to represent the branch at State Conference and City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder Councillor Lisa Schofield was elected as delegate for the Young Nationals.
Apart from the normal business of an AGM, the branch took the opportunity to verify some motions to be forwarded to the State Council for debate.
The branch has called for the Federal Nationals to support the implementation of a flowthrough shares scheme by July 2009, and promote investment in exploration by allowing the selective use of flow-through share schemes for Australian junior operators in the gas, oil and mineral exploration industries.
Members have also called on The Nationals WA to consider broader strategies to stimulate mineral exploration in Australia; in particular to fast track the implementation of the Party’s policy for an exploration incentive scheme.
“As residents of a mining community we are acutely aware of how this issue affects our juniors and the mining industry and in turn our communities,” Ms Williams said.
“At this time of economic uncertainty we need to be promoting the industry and Australian ownership.”
Branch President Tony Crook said The Nationals WA had achieved a great result in the election and proven they are serious about delivering