Today, I announce that I will not be contesting the November State Election.
It has been an incredible honour, and a significant chapter of my life, to represent the people of this region over the past 16 years, including 13 years serving on the front bench as a Minister and Shadow Minister.
Over the coming months leading up to the election, I will continue to represent the people of East Gippsland to the very best of my ability.
My family and close friends – who have been a tremendous source of support – have known since the last election that this would likely be my final term. I have taken the time to ensure there were no second thoughts, and there are none.
I have been fortunate to work alongside exceptional staff during my time in public office. I extend my sincere thanks to Gaynor, who has been with me from the beginning, along with Jess and Anthony, who have also provided long and dedicated service. I also acknowledge and thank all those who previously worked with me in both my electorate and ministerial offices.
My thanks also go to Peter Ryan, Peter Walsh and Danny O’Brien – the three National Party leaders I have served under – whose support and friendship I greatly value, along with that of my parliamentary colleagues past and present.
East Gippsland is a wonderful place to live and work. While the region faces its share of challenging times through fires, floods and storms, those moments have always highlighted the very best of our community, with people coming together to support one another. It’s a privilege to represent such a resilient and caring region.
Politics is an arena where people will often hold very different views, and I understand not everyone agrees with all positions taken – that is simply the nature of public life. However, I have always tried to make decisions based on what I genuinely believed was in the best interests of the community.
As I step back from public life later this year, there are other interests and opportunities I look forward to pursuing – things that have been difficult to find time for while serving in Parliament. What lies ahead remains very much an open book, but I will continue to enjoy living in East Gippsland and being part of this community for many years to come.
