THE race which is otherwise known as the Cootamundra by-election has everyone placing their bets.
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Country folk want a fighter. They want someone who will stand up for what is right and just. It is a case of being able to make a living without being bound by red tape or hamstrung by an anti-rural green movement.
So if early indications are to be a guide the Cootamundra by-election is effectively a “two-horse race”.
Will it be the Shooters, Fishers and Farmers, or will the Nationals continue the stronghold in what was once titled a safe seat? If the “shooters” can take Orange that party could possibly emerge victorious in Cootamundra too. And if you are a betting person the odds don’t look too bad.
Cootamundra by-Election market courtesy of sportsbet.com.au:
- $1.60 Shooters, Fishers and Farmers Party
- $2.50 National Party
- $10 Outdoor Recreation Party
- $12 Labor
- $26 Christian Democrats
- $101 Greens
- $501 Socialist Alliance
But what does this all mean for the most important people. The voters.
Constituents want backbone, they don’t want council amalgamations or bans to greyhound racing or whatever might be next on the fashionable list of things that need to be overturned by city-centric politics. In fact, politics in the bush has never been so interesting. You don’t have to go far to find someone who has an opinion.
But in this race, could an eleventh hour independent be the answer?
In a fight to retain education services, roads that are capable of standing up to more than a couple of grain trucks, and much needed-health providers will the ultimate decisions come down to a good candidate? Over the years the Riverina has had some top-performing politicians at both a state and federal level.
Kay Hull is known for her tireless work for Wagga and it continues. And Tim Fischer of Boree Creek certainly made his mark in the political arena.
If you have a handy resume, an affinity for rural Australia, and a commitment to work for constituents it is worth throwing your hat into the ring. The pre-selection process is not over yet and voters are certainly not indicating party loyalty. This is a race that will come down to the quality of the candidate or individual.