Outgoing Nationals MP for the New South Wales state seat of Lismore Thomas George issued a statement on Tuesday following the election win by Labor candidate and former federal MP for Page Janelle Saffin.
On Tuesday of this week new Nationals candidate Austin Curtin and Sue Higginson conceded defeat to Ms Saffin after preferences were finalised.
Mr George said it had been “an honour and a privilege to have represented the Lismore Electorate for the past twenty years, not only as the Member but as Deputy Speaker”.
“I want to take this opportunity to thank those who over the years have supported my family and I, The Nationals and the Government,” he said.
“At this time I struggle to find the words which truly express my gratitude and appreciation of Austin Curtin and his wife Bronwyn and family, for their tireless contribution over such a long campaign.
“Nearly forty per cent of people voted number one for Austin or The Nationals, showing his advocacy and the party’s brand in the Northern Rivers is strong – I thank you for that show of support.
“My disappointment of course is the Lismore Electorate now does not have a strong voice around the Government table.
“Since the Liberals and Nationals were elected into Government in 2011 that voice has certainly be reflective in what has been achieved and delivered.
“I finally want to congratulate the Labor Party and Janelle Saffin on winning the seat.”
