Mr Humphries, who has held Barwon since 2007, yesterday ended months of speculation he would make a play for the seat of Northern Tablelands.

Last year’s controversial redistribution of electoral boundaries means Barwon will lose Mr Humphries’ base of Moree to Northern Tablelands.

But in return it will extend west and pick up Broken Hill, covering 44 per cent of the state and becoming the largest electorate in NSW.

Mr Humphries said the size of the Barwon electorate, which will be larger than the states of Tasmania and Victoria combined, did not deter him.

“I very much enjoy working with the people and communities of the west and will continue to maintain that momentum in the lead-up to the March 2015 election,” he said.

“Western NSW is characterised by geography and diversity, something I am well used to within the current electorate.”

Mr Humphries sought endorsement from the Nationals’ Narrabri branch last night and will attend the Barwon pre-selection meeting in Warren on March 22.

“In politics you have to be passionate about the area and people you represent. My commitment remains with the people of western NSW and making sure they get the services and resources they deserve. In government, and as a minister, you have to have a functioning network of people who can help you make good decisions about policy development and resource allocations. At the end of the day, it is about helping to improve the quality of life for those you represent and making sure their issues are heard and acknowledged, no matter their background or location,” he said.