NSW state parliament has seen an influx of red as Labor will likely form a minority government, currently holding 45 seats; two less than required to form a majority government. The seat of Murray has seen pink, re-electing Helen Dalton as Member for Murray. Mrs Dalton increased her popularity, obtaining 13,329 votes (48.45 per cent) since leaving the Shooters, Fishers, Farmers Party in 2022 and running as an independent in the electorate larger than Scotland.
Mrs Dalton said she wouldn’t have been successful without the help of a large team right across the electorate, including a large group of dedicated volunteers.
“From my family, to the team in the office – the people who have put up corflutes, volunteered at pre-poll or on election day, sent in messages of support, and encouraged me through not just this election, but over the last four years, I couldn’t have done it without you, and I thank you from the bottom of my heart,” Mrs Dalton said.
In a changing government, Mrs Dalton said she will be looking to build on the momentum of the last four years.
“I will be focusing on water, health, education, housing and connectivity, all the issues dear to Murray constituents.”
Mrs Dalton said in the short term, she will be focusing on Labor’s election promises, including the demerger of Murrumbidgee Regional High School, demerger from Murrumbidgee Local Health and funding for a $2 million MND study.
“Buybacks will be at the top of the agenda and I will be asking NSW to support Victoria in their call for no more federal buybacks.”
Mrs Dalton said it will be a busy term but she is committed and ready to keep Murray moving.
“Winning the election is just the start. I have four years of hard work ahead and I am determined to make every minute count.”
The Nationals’ campaign failed to launch Peta Betts into any real contention with 7,247 votes or 26.34 per cent of the votes.
Independent candidate, David Landini, who stood for the formation of the Riverina State, has doubled his previous popularity, attracting nearly 3 per cent of the vote.
This article appeared in The Koondrook and Barham Bridge Newspaper, 30 March 2023.
