‘Awesome responsibility’: Paul Scully ready for first crack as government member

He is in the centre of Labor’s Illawarra heartland and Paul Scully says his “supporters and critiques” are confident he and a swathe of re-elected southern NSW MPs will get the job done.

Labor's Illawarra and south coast six in (from left) Maryanne Stuart (Heathcote), Ryan Park (Keira), Paul Scully (Wollongong), Anna Watson (Shellharbour), Liza Butler (South Coast) and Michael Holland (Bega). It could still become seven if Katelin McInerney can overcome independent Gareth Ward.

Labor‘s heartland in the Illawarra was never going to be breached with Wollongong state Labor MP Paul Scully firming his grip on the seat.

While the electorate has always been a Labor stronghold in the eyes of many, this victory was particularly sweet given Mr Scully has only ever represented his constituents from Opposition.

“Opposition is extraordinarily frustrating,” Mr Scully told NewsLocal while collecting election signs from supporters in Warrawong.

“You can see what needs to be done, you can almost see how you‘d like to do it but you often can’t get your concerns taken as seriously as they should be.

“Today speaking to colleagues and a personal reflection is their sense of excitement of the prospect of governing in NSW, but also recognition of the awesome responsibility that comes with that.”

Mr Scully said there was “genuine excitement” at Figtree Bowling Club – the venue which has become the ”traditional home” for Labor on election night.

Labor also increased their position in Keira, held by Health Minister in waiting Ryan Park, claimed Heathcote through Maryanne Stuart and held off a mayoral independent in Shellharbour to return Anna Watson.

Labor Member for Keira Ryan Park and his son Oliver at Farmborough Road Public School on election day. Picture: Dylan Arvela

The incoming government also caused a shock with Liza Butler winning in the long-held Liberal seat of South Coast, while Michael Holland was re-elected with a strong swing in his favour.

The battle for Kiama between incumbent independent Gareth Ward and Labor pick Katelin McInerney is yet to be won, however, Mr Scully said the Illawarra will now have a “serious seat at the table”.

“I have to say during the day and over the last few weeks I thought that it was going to be tight and there was a real prospect of minority government,” Mr Scully, who has touted his interest in the planning portfolio, explained.

“But it seems that the people of NSW have clearly expressed their desire for the state.

“Katelin McInerney would probably be chewing her fingernails, but she shouldn‘t be panicked. She’s in front, there’s still a lot of counting to go and as we saw nine months ago with Fiona Phillips the wait can be well worth it.

“From Heathcote right the way through to the border having Labor members it shows people are absolutely ready for change.”

Wollongong MP Paul Scully said NSW is “absolutely ready for change”. Picture: Dylan Arvela

Mr Scully‘s “toughest critique” is his wife and federal Member for Cunningham Alison Byrnes who was beaming about her husband’s achievement.

“I am so excited,” she exclaimed.

“Going into the party and getting to introduce Ryan and Paul, who are just such great advocates for our community and seeing them go into cabinet positions in a Minns’ Labor government is really, really exciting.

“I am his strongest support and toughest critique. I am so proud of him and the work that he‘s going to do.

“He is just one of the brightest, most caring men I‘ve ever met and I’m just so proud of him and the work that he’s going to do in the future.”

Warrawong’s Kewa family are “excited” by the Member for Wollongong Paul Scully being re-elected into a Labor government. Picture: Dylan Arvela

Warrawong resident John Kewa told NewsLocal he was also “excited” to see Mr Scully, who he described as a ”good man” and a ”friend”.

The people of NSW have spoken with the majority win,“ Mr Kewa, who migrated from PNG with his family a decade ago, explained.

“It‘s always a reflection of what people feel and think about politics, life and their values.

“Paul not only promises, but he delivers. He has been fighting for [upgrades to] Unanderra Station, trying his best to be vocal about bringing manufacturing to the Illawarra and supporting schools.

“He is outspoken and I think we are well represented.

“I migrated here 10 years ago and I met Paul for a cuppa even before he went into politics. We are friends. I have raised four kids here and I dream about our leaders standing up and giving us confidence about their futures.”