[Greens-Media] Greens congratulate candidate for making Vasse seat marginal

[Walker, Nadine]

Greens congratulate candidate for making Vasse seat marginal
Media statement, Monday, 20 October 2014

Greens MLC Lynn MacLaren has congratulated Vasse candidate Michael Baldock and his campaign team for 'knocking 2500 doors and earning an 8% swing in their favour even though the campaign timeframe was remarkably short'. 

"Michael is a well-respected member of the community in Vasse, voters recognised sound policies and a strong vision for a sustainable future. Michael offered balance and an interest in education, health and community infrastructure that appealed to many.

"I'd also like to note that the decision to encourage voters to choose their own order of preferences was welcomed by voters as evidenced by the low number of informal votes. 

"Michael stood up against proposals that the community opposed, including fracking, ruining Vasse Wonnerup Wetlands and shark culling. The Premier has indicated that the Greens stance on shark culling deterred people from voting Greens, extensive phone banking in the lead up to the campaign shows otherwise. The wider Australian public and community members in the South West do not support a knee-jerk nonsensical policy that is proven not to protect the community but adversely impact our marine eco-system. 

"I wish Libby Mettam well in her new role as a representative for Vasse, alongside the Premier she should be wary that the swing away from the Liberals was substantive and may result in a different outcome in the next election, which is not far off." 

"The Greens campaign was winning voters over. In voting before Election Day we received 13.86% of the vote. On Election Day the vote had increased to 19.73%. Had there been another week there could have been a very different result", said Greens candidate for Vasse, Michael Baldock.

"Among a number of issues, funding of mental health services and on the Vasse Wonnerup Wetlands were given strong support and we will be watching to see these commitments honoured.

"The Greens have played their part in making Vasse marginal which is a good result for the people of Vasse, the 2017 election will be very interesting to watch unfold in this region", he concluded.

For comment: Hon Lynn MacLaren MLC
Mobile 0403 721 951

Media liaison: Nadine Walker
Mobile 0449 189 195