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Election result confirms The Nationals still going strong

Peter Walsh's statement about the 2016 election confirming that even after 100 years, voters still see The Nationals as their strong voice for Victoria’s regional communities

By news@gippsland - 19th July 2016 - Back to News

The Federal Election results have confirmed voters still see The Nationals as the one true party that delivers for regional Victoria.

"The 2016 election confirms that even after 100 years, voters still see The Nationals as their strong voice for Victoria’s regional communities," Victoria’s Leader of The Nationals Peter Walsh said.

"Voters overwhelmingly returned The Nationals MPs Darren Chester, Andrew Broad and Senator Bridget McKenzie, and we saw tremendous support for Damian Drum who will be the new Nationals Member for Murray.

"I also recognise the outstanding efforts of Rebecca Treloar, Marty Corboy, Paul Tatchell, Andy Maddison and James Anderson and thank them for standing for The Nationals in contests where the odds were against us, but it was important to be on the ballot paper.

"The Nationals are celebrating their centenary in Victoria this year, and throughout the last 100 years we have been steadfastly committed to being the strong voice of regional Victorians. That will never change.

"The Federal Election results point to a bright future for The Nationals, and this is reinforced with so many people expressing interest in becoming The Nationals’ next Member for Northern Victoria replacing Damian Drum in State Parliament.

"I’m very proud to be leading The Nationals at a time when the party is rejuvenating with younger people and more women are being elected to our ranks, and we must continue to do this if The Nationals are going to be here for another 100 years."

Mr Walsh also paid tribute to the leadership of Barnaby Joyce and Fiona Nash.

"Barnaby and Fiona have led a united team and their can-do, common sense approach resonated with voters across the nation.

"Barnaby has taken to the Leader’s position with his trademark gusto, and we look forward to working with our Federal Nationals colleagues to help deliver more jobs, more investment, more infrastructure and more opportunity for the people of regional Victoria."

Media contact Emma Manser 0437 225 386 emma.manser@opposition.vic.gov.au