Federal and state Nationals representatives have met with locals and business owners in Maffra to discuss the issues and priorities facing regional communities ahead of Victoria’s November 28 state election.
The Nationals team, including Federal Leader Senator Matt Canavan, Deputy Federal Leader and Member for Gippsland Darren Chester, Victorian Nationals Leader and Member for Gippsland South Danny O’Brien, Member for Eastern Victoria Region Melina Bath and Nationals candidate for Gippsland East Gemma Rendell, joined Gippslanders at Maffra Community Sports Club for a community discussion event.
Mr Chester said the gathering provided an opportunity to hear directly from residents and business owners about the pressures affecting their families, livelihoods and communities.
“It’s important that regional people have the opportunity to speak directly with their representatives about the issues that matter to them,” Mr Chester said.
“Cost-of-living pressures, access to healthcare, road conditions, housing, energy costs and the future of local jobs and industries are all having a real impact on regional communities.
“These conversations help ensure the experiences and priorities of people in towns like Maffra are heard by representatives at both the state and federal level.”
Mr Chester said face-to-face engagement remained an important part of effective regional representation.
“There is no substitute for getting out into communities, sitting down with local people and hearing firsthand about the challenges and opportunities they see,” Mr Chester said.
“Maffra is a strong and proud community, and it was terrific to have Matt, Danny, Melina and Gemma together with local residents and business owners for an open discussion about the future of regional Victoria.
“Thank you to everyone who took the time to come along, share their views and raise the issues that matter most to them, their families and their businesses.”
Pictured: Federal Nationals Leader Senator Matt Canavan, Deputy Federal Leader and Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester, Victorian Nationals Leader and Member for Gippsland South Danny O’Brien, Member for Eastern Victoria Region Melina Bath and Nationals candidate for Gippsland East Gemma Rendell with locals at Maffra Community Sports Club.
