Turbulent first term but Pat Conaghan up for more

It’s been a turbulent first term in office to say the least, but now Pat Conaghan is ready to do it all again.

It’s been a turbulent first term in office to say the least, but now Pat Conaghan is ready to do it all again.

The Cowper MP has been endorsed as the National Party candidate for the next federal election.

“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to lead our community throughout what has been a particularly challenging time, and I am equally thrilled to let you know my colleagues have endorsed me to be your National Party candidate for the next Federal Election,” Mr Conaghan said on Monday after the vote on Saturday.

“During my time as your Federal member we’ve experienced drought, bushfires, the COVID-19 pandemic and most recently the devastating flooding.

“I thank my colleagues and our entire community for having the faith in me to continue delivering for the mid-north coast.”

Cowper was one of the electorates on a knife edge in the lead up to last Federal Election.

With long-serving Nationals Member Luke Hartsuyker retiring and high-profile independent Rob Oakeshott entering the race, The Coalition pulled out all the stops.

Earlier this year it was revealed the Cowper electorate was linked to the infamous ‘sports rorts’ funding debacle.

In recent months Mr Conaghan has broken ranks with party colleagues saying the Newstart allowance is too low.

He has described the payments as “inadequate” and has called on both sides of parliament to begin serious discussions on how the unemployment benefits could be increased.

Mr Conaghan says he will also continue to advocate for more doctors across the region, improve outcomes for aged care, and focus on regional issues that “ensure the Cowper electorate receives its fair share of funding”.