Legislative Council: Liberal Party announces candidates for Rumney, Prosser upper house elections

The Liberal Party has unveiled its candidates for two upcoming Tasmanian elections, with Premier Jeremy Rockliff heaping praise on the endorsed pair.

The Liberals have endorsed a previously unsuccessful candidate while a former government minister will look to retain her seat in upcoming Legislative Council elections.

Gregory Brown, who was defeated by Labor’s Luke Edmunds in the Pembroke by-election in September, winning 28.72 per cent of the primary vote, has received the Liberal Party’s endorsement to run in the Rumney electorate in 2023.

Rumney, which encompasses areas including Lauderdale, Rokeby, Cambridge and Richmond, has been held by Labor’s Sarah Lovell since 2017.

Premier Jeremy Rockliff said ‘Brownie’ was a “well-known figure on the Eastern Shore”.

“[He] has built a successful farming business in the heart of Rumney, adding to the local economy,” Mr Rockliff said.

Premier Jeremy Rockliff, Member for Prosser Jane Howlett and Liberals candidate for Rumney Gregory Brown. Pic supplied.

“I have seen first-hand the passion and commitment ‘Brownie’ has for the region, and I know he will be an outstanding local member that delivers for the Rumney electorate should he be successful next year.”

Prosser Liberal MLC Jane Howlett, meanwhile, has confirmed she will seek re-election in 2024. Her electorate covers Tasmania’s south-east coast, Sorell, and the Tasman Peninsula.

Ms Howeltt, a former government minister, was first elected in 2018.

She dealt with persistent rumours of a conflict of interest due to a close personal relationship with Tasmania JackJumpers CEO Simon Brookhouse while she was Sport and Recreation Minister. The government vigorously denied that any conflict existed in Ms Howlett’s case.

Jane Howlett at the estimates hearings. Picture: Linda Higginson

She resigned her ministries in February, citing the death of her brother.

The Premier said he was “absolutely delighted” that Ms Howlett had decided to seek another term.

“Jane has been a strong voice for the region since her election in 2018 and has been a champion for a number of local issues,” Mr Rockliff said.

“Jane’s passion and commitment for Prosser is without question and I look forward to [continuing to work] with her to ensure the region maintains its strong representation and benefits from a strong local economy.”

Originally published as Legislative Council: Liberal Party announces candidates for Rumney, Prosser upper house elections