The producers and crew from ABC’s Q&A program are gearing up for its telecast from Tamworth War Memorial Town Hall this weekend, which will see member for New England Barnaby Joyce go head-to-head with his nemesis and independent candidate for New England, Tony Windsor.

Also on the panel is Opposition spokesman for agriculture, fisheries, forestry and rural affairs,  Joel Fitzgibbon; National Farmers Federation vice-president Fiona Simson; and farmer and business leader Robbie Sefton.

Locals from the New England electorate have also been invited to ask questions of the panellists.

Q&A executive producer Peter McEvoy told The Leader the program had chosen Tamworth because of its location and the ongoing political battle for the seat.

“Tamworth is synonymous with rural and regional Australia because of the country music festival, but this election it’s also at the centre of the ongoing battle to determine who’s best to represent rural and regional citizens politically: traditional parties like The Nationals, or independents and minor-party alternatives,” Mr McEvoy said. 

Mr McEvoy said the news that the popular program would be broadcasting from Tamworth had been well-received.

“Well over 1000 people have applied to come along and we’ll have a full house of over 750 people in the town hall, with people travelling from across the region – including some coming in by bus from Armidale, Muswellbrook and Scone,” the executive producer said.

“As always, there’ll be a wide range of views in the audience, with supporters of all candidates and parties well-represented.

“The questions are up to the audience and we won’t get most of those until Monday, but we’re expecting smart, challenging questions for our panel, and a lively debate that responds to the concerns expressed by the community and reflects the national issues that affect all regional voters.”