Labor set to turn to former MP Steve Whan in Monaro after Terry Campese withdrawal

Monaro voters may recognise a familiar face, with Labor set to back a former MP in Monaro.

Labor are set to go back to the future after their star candidate for Monaro Terry Campese withdrew from the election race, with former MP Steve Whan to take his place running for the regional seat.

The Telegraph understands Mr Whan – the member for Monaro from 2003 until his defeat in 2011 – will be the frontrunner when a preselection vote is held early next week.

Sources told The Telegraph the party had gone “all-in” on Mr Campese, leaving them scrambling to find a replacement when the former NRL Raiders captain withdrew last week.

“Today I’m announcing that I will step down as Labor’s candidate. Not because my heart isn’t in it but because I love this community too much to drag it through the media – whether they are truthful or not,” Mr Campese said last week.

Following his loss in 2011, Mr Whan took over a casual vacancy in the NSW Upper House, where he remained until 2015.

Could Steve Whan be back as an MP this year?

Sources told The Telegraph Mr Whan had re-engaged more heavily with the party over the last two years, which has led to him helming Labor’s regional policies.

During his time in government he spent six years as a Minister, which included holding portfolios for resources and primary industries, small business, and emergency services.

The Telegraph understands Queanbeyan-Palerang Mayor Kenrick Winchester and councillor Bryce Wilson – who ran in a by-election for the seat last year – were other options for Labor.

The seat is currently held by Nationals MP Nichole Overall, who won it in last year’s by-election caused by the resignation of former Deputy Premier John Barilaro.