Queensland election 2017 results: Rockhampton a close-fought contest

WIN or lose, Margaret Strelow says she has no regrets about her last-minute decision to run as an Independent in Rockhampton.

WIN or lose, Margaret Strelow says she has no regrets about her last-minute decision to run as an Independent in Rockhampton.

“There is a really strong understanding (among voters) that I had to do what I’ve done here and a lot of gratitude,’’ the mayor of the cattle city said.

With 80 per cent of the votes counted last night, Ms Strelow had about a quarter of the primary vote.

Labor candidate Barry O’Rourke had about a third of the primary vote, with One Nation’s Wade Rothery — a former professional rugby league player-- also pulling over 20 per cent.

Preferences could help Ms Strelow to victory.

Independent candidate Margaret Strelow at Gracemere yesterday

“Whatever the result, it has sent a strong message from Rockhampton that we want to be taken into account a lot more, that we won’t be ignored,’’ she said.

Ms Strelow originally ran for Labor preselection, with the personal support of Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk.

Having missed out to Mr O’Rourke, she announced she was going it alone on the day before nominations closed.

The move markedly changed the nature of the battle for the seat which has been a traditional Labor stronghold.

Ms Strelow said: “I can’t read it at all. Anyone who believes they can understand what’s going to happen here tonight is kidding themselves.”

The resignation of local member and Agriculture Minister Bill Byrne due to serious illness in early October was cited by Ms Palaszczuk a a factor in her calling the election early.

Labor Member for Keppel Brittany Lauga casts her vote with daughter Odette yesterday.

Long-time local and public housing boss for central Queensland, Mr O’Rourke is expected to benefit from the preferences from Ms Strelow’s supporters, although she left how-to-vote cards blank.

Ms Palaszczuk made two trips to Rockhampton during the campaign to help bolster his chances.

LNP contender Douglas Rodgers said there was no doubt Ms Strelow’s involvement ‘’added another dimension” to the election

In nearby Keppel, sitting ALP member Brittany Lauga was looking strong to hold her seat, but wasn’t ready to claim victory.

“I’m quietly confident. It’s looking positive.

“But there were a lot of pre-poll votes -- about 50 percent of the total I think -- so it’s a bitr early.”

There was a big swing against the LNP, with One Nation’s Matthew Low benefiting.

Earlier, LNP candidate Peter Blundell said he was feeling a bit confident, “but I certainly don’t think it’s going to be easy”.

“I think it will be long and drawn out before we know the result.”

The future of the Great Keppel Island redevelopment was a key issue during the local campaign, with the owners Tower Holdings insisting they need a casino licence to secure investment.

Ms Lauga, who gave birth just before the election campaign began, had initially backed the casino proposal, but later distanced herself, instead unveiling a $25 million state grant to revitalise the island.