Nationals candidate for the upcoming State election Kate Hazelton has visited Forbes to gain a grasp of the community’s key issues before we go to the polls on March 23.
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The need for infrastructure, more doctors, and a 24-hour police station were the top three issues she would take back for consideration, she said.
Mrs Hazelton, formally endorsed by the party with just a handful of weeks until the election, spent time with Forbes Shire Council, Lachlan Valley Water representatives and local National Party branch members during her visit on Monday.
On Tuesday, she was in Orange with Premier Gladys Berejiklian, who pledged $25 million for Orange’s purpose-built sporting precinct if Mrs Hazelton defeats incumbent Orange MP Phil Donato in next month’s state election.
But yesterday Mrs Hazelton, a Cudal resident, spoke about her visit to Forbes and said it’s not only Orange that needs infrastructure upgrades, the whole electorate is growing.
“Young people are being drawn to the country, the dynamics are changing,” she said.
Infrastructure, as well as services like childcare, are essential to meet their needs, she said.
Mrs Hazelton also spoke about tourism, admiring Forbes’ heritage town centre, shopping and the Italian meal she enjoyed while here.
NSW heads to the polls on Saturday March 23. Mrs Hazelton has just a few short weeks to campaign.
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She explained she is a long-term supporter and member of the party, but had not considered running herself until the question was raised over a meal, with the election approaching and the party lacking a candidate.
“I’m not a career politician, I just think you should put your money where your mouth is,” Mrs Hazleton said.
There are four candidates for Forbes’ electorate, the seat of Orange:
Kate Hazelton is standing for the Nationals;
Current Member for Orange Phil Donato for the Shooters, Fishers and Farmers Party;
Luke Sanger for the Country Labor Party;
Garry McMahon for the Australian Conservatives.
More on the final two candidates to come, Mr McMahon has indicated he will be visiting Forbes in coming weeks.