NSW Nationals MP Chris Gulaptis to retire

“Now is the time for renewal,” said Clarence MP Chris Gulaptis on his shock move to call it quits. Why he’s decided it’s time.

Nationals Member for Clarence, Chris Gulaptis, is set to retire - putting a full stop to his 11-year long hold on the state seat at the next election.

“I have given everything I have to this role – my heart, my energy, my passion – and whilst there have been some turbulent times, I have loved every minute of it,” Mr Gulaptis said.

“That said, I feel now is the right time to retire. Now is the time for renewal and for someone else to take my place.”

Mr Gulaptis said he has a son and granddaughter in New York and a son in Madrid - and planned to spend plenty of time with them in his retirement.

However, unlike his recent National Party colleague, former deputy premier John Barilaro, Mr Gulatpis’ sojourn to the Big Apple is unlikely to cause a nationwide stir.

Mr Barilaro has been in the spotlight over the state government’s recruitment of him to a $500,000-a-year New York trade posting.

Mr Barilaro subsequently decided to withdraw from the role as the state’s Trade Commissioner to the Americas.

Chris Gulaptis: “I have given everything.” Photo: Adam Hourigan/The Daily Examiner

Despite the controversy roiling inside the Coalition, Mr Gulaptis said he was a “proud member of the National Party”.

Mr Gulaptis is credited with the construction of a second Grafton bridge and securing the funding for the construction of Australia’s largest prison under his watch.

NSW deputy premier Paul Toole thanked Mr Gulaptis for his service.

“His legacy will be evident for decades to come for anyone driving along the North Coast – an upgraded Pacific Highway that has saved hundreds of lives,” Mr Toole said.

“And better health facilities including securing funding for a major redevelopment of the Grafton Base Hospital.”

Member for Clarence, Chris Gulaptis, with workers at the opening of the new Grafton bridge on December 12, 2019.

As the local member, Mr Gulaptis advocated for new ambulance stations at Iluka and Casino; upgrades to the Northern Rivers Livestock Exchange at Casino, the Grafton Regional Gallery and Casino Showground.

He has served as a parliamentary secretary for key portfolio areas affecting the regions including Agriculture, Forestry, Regional Roads and Regional Planning.

“I feel very privileged and honoured to represent the people of Clarence and I will remember this time with great fondness,” Mr Gulaptis said.

The Legislative Assembly District of Clarence has 57,016 electors and occupies an area of 13,492 square kilometres. It includes the city of Grafton and the major towns of Yamba and Casino.