Political party: The Nationals

Age: 52

Residence: Armidale

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What do you do for a living?

Member for New England

How long have you lived in the New England electorate?

Born here and lived here all my life but for 18 years working in Queensland.

What is the best part of living in the New England electorate?

The people, the community, the dynamism of the big towns and the natural environment - from the rainforest of the north east near Urbenville, to the western plains of Yetman and the vineyards of the Hunter Valley and everywhere in between.

Why are you running for the federal seat of New England?

Because I love my home and I want the best for it and I will fight for it.

Why are you qualified to be the elected member for New England?

From my experience of my own business, my understanding of the area because I grew up here and my long experience in politics, in both the Senate and the lower house.

In your opinion, what are the most pressing issues facing the New England electorate?

Cost of living. For some it's their power bill, for others it's the drought and water infrastructure, for small businesses it's making sure the area grows, it's making sure producers get the best price for their commodities, it's also about building the infrastructure that we need here to support our population growth such as more mobile phone towers, bridges, roads and dams while supporting our schools and hospitals.

What is your message to the voters?

This is about you, the New England. I've been honoured to work hard and represent you, fighting for so much for the region, investing in decentralisation, infrastructure, roads and agriculture and there's more to do. I will continue to be a strong voice in Canberra.

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