The Nationals WA have announced an all-star team to stand up for regional WA at the 2017 State Election.
Leader of The Nationals WA, Terry Redman, said a strong, independent, and passionate team had assembled to represent the best interests of regional families, businesses and communities.
“I’m delighted to announce the first round of candidates who will seek to champion regional WA and safeguard the future of Royalties for Regions in State Parliament,” Mr Redman said.
Joining The Nationals WA team is Katanning farmer, businessman, and chair of the Great Southern Development Commission, Peter Rundle, who will contest the new Seat of Roe.
Former Federal MP, and Goldfields local Tony Crook, has also been endorsed for the Seat of Kalgoorlie.
Returning incumbent MPs include Member for Warren-Blackwood Terry Redman, Member for North West Central Vincent Catania and Member for Pilbara Brendon Grylls.
Member for Wagin Terry “Tuck” Waldron and Member for Kalgoorlie Wendy Duncan will both retire from Parliament at the 2017 State Election.
Mr Redman said the loss of a regional seat – as Wagin and Eyre merge to become Roe – to create an additional metropolitan seat was bad news for country voters.
“The loss of a regional seat quite simply means regional residents will face an uphill battle to have their voices heard in State Parliament. That’s why it’s more important than ever to vote for the only Party dedicated to growing and developing regional WA.”
Mr Redman said only The Nationals WA could safeguard the future of Royalties for Regions.
“In recent weeks, both major parties have come out saying they would like to see Royalties for Regions changed so that it can fund roads in Albany or fix broken promises in Carnarvon.
“Only The Nationals WA can ensure that Royalties for Regions continues to deliver the best outcomes for regional WA and doesn’t become watered down or diluted by the metro-centric major parties.”
Mr Redman reiterated The Nationals WA’s role as an independent political party heading into the State election.
“We have assembled an excellent team of local champions and we look forward to a State election campaign that puts regional issues front and centre.”
Pre-selection for the remaining regional Legislative Assembly and Legislative Council seats and the Federal seats of O’Connor, Durack, Forrest and Pearce is set to take place on April 30 and May 1.
Nominations for all remaining State and Federal seats is currently open. Contact State Director Jamie Forsyth for more information.
For media enquiries contact State Director Jamie Forsyth on 08 9322 7856