Today I am announcing that I am putting myself forward as a candidate for National Party preselection for the Federal seat of Calare. This is not a decision I’ve taken lightly – especially because I’m acutely aware of my current responsibilities representing 74,500 people in the State electorate that I love. We’ve got some exciting projects on the move and potentially walking away from them would not be an easy thing to do. In coming to this decision I’ve discussed the issue with my family, local party members and constituents extensively.
Another important factor was that it has been made clear to me via senior Federal Party figures that, should I ultimately be lucky enough to succeed in the preselection and then the general election, I would be a very welcome addition to the Federal party room – which was really encouraging.
Having weighed it all up I’ve decided to seek preselection because there is, right now, a real opportunity for the Federal Government to get some things done that will make a real difference to the lives of the people of this region. With a new Nationals Federal leadership team and a Coalition Government with momentum behind it, the time is now and it’s an opportunity we need to seize on so many fronts.
Preselections are gruelling processes and I am in no doubt about how difficult this one will be. I think it will be a very close contest and the outcome is uncertain. Should I not succeed at this preselection it is my intention to return to my duties as the Nationals’ State Member for the
Orange Electorate.
Andrew Gee, MP