The stage has been set for the battle of the seat of Paterson following the Liberal Party endorsement this week of Medowie solicitor Brooke Vitnell to contest the next federal election, expected some time before May 2022.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
While Ms Vitnell has pledged to put the people of Paterson first by tirelessly working to deliver a stronger community with more jobs and economic opportunities, her Labor rival incumbent Meryl Swanson has vowed she to continue in her role of delivering for her community,
Ms Vitnell said that her inspiration to stand was drawn on the experiences of families across the electorate that have shaped the Hunter Valley's success.
"My family is Hunter born and bred. They've rolled BHP steel, shovelled coal, cut timber, fought to defend our country and brought up families they're proud of," she said.
"They've given me opportunities I am thankful for. Their stories are the stories of our community, with all the ups and downs. While we are strong and resilient, I don't take that for granted."
Ms Vitnell said that a Coalition Government would put jobs first.
"The Prime Minister has shown his commitment to industries like manufacturing, energy and tourism and I am sending a strong message that regardless of what industry you work in, I will fight to ensure you can succeed."
Ms Vitnell's community service includes roles with the Port Stephens Community Drug Action Team, COPSY and active membership of Medowie Lions, the Medowie-Williamtown Rotary Club and Marine Rescue.
Raised in Shoal Bay, Ms Vitnell resides in Medowie and is married to Prime Minister Scott Morrison's media adviser, Julian Leembruggen.
Ms Swanson holds the seat of Paterson by a 5 per cent margin.
"Some of the projects that I have successfully pushed this government for and won include the airport runway upgrade, the M1 extension and Raymond Terrace bypass," Ms Swanson said.
"Without my continued pressure Scott Morrison would not even bother to come to the Hunter and re-announce his commitment to these projects.
"Embarrassingly he has failed to provide any detail about how he will support mining communities, renewables and jobs of the future. The only new announcement was a study into a hydrogen hub which at the last election, his party described as 'snake oil'."
Ms Swanson said that the PM could have announced during his visit a full Medicare licence for the MRI at the New Maitland Hospital, or supported GP Access so it doesn't have to close or put an end to the threat of oil and gas exploration off our coastline by killing PEP 11.
In other Port Stephens news
Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can access our trusted content:
- Bookmark www.portstephensexaminer.com.au
- Follow us on Instagram @psexaminer
- Follow us on Twitter @PortExaminer
- Follow the Port Stephens Examiner on Facebook