NSW election: Kiama MP Gareth Ward claims electorate against Labor’s Katelin McInerney

The key south coast of Kiama has been conceded and claimed with Liberal-turned-independent Gareth Ward retaining the electorate he has held since 2011.

Member for Kiama Gareth Ward has claimed victory against Labor rival Katelin McInerney. Picture: Jonathan Ng

Labor candidate Katelin McInerney has moved first and conceded she does not have the numbers to unseat Member for Kiama Gareth Ward.

The concession came four hours after ABC election analyst Antony Green declared Liberal-turned-independent Mr Ward “won’t be passed” after moving to 51.3 per cent of the vote with 79.1 per cent of ballots counted.

“As the counting continues it has become clear that Labor will not win the seat of Kiama,” Ms McInerney said.

“While the result is disappointing, I am incredibly proud of the positive and disciplined campaign we have run to give both Kiama and NSW a fresh start.

“I put my hand up to run for the seat of Kiama to make sure that my son William and kids just like him could grow up in the best future possible.

“While we will not get across the line in Kiama, I am glad that the people of NSW voted for a fresh start and I look forward to a new Labor government delivering for our community.

“I would like to thank all my supporters, my campaign team and my family for your help over the last few months – I couldn’t have done it without you.

“After a long campaign, I am looking forward to spending some time with my family and continuing to advocate for my community to make sure we get the fresh start we deserve.”

Labor candidate Katelin McInerney with her son William at Mount Terry Public School on election day. Picture: Jane Dempster

Mr Ward, who moved ahead of Ms McInerney on Tuesday while at court to plead not guilty to multiple sexual assault charges, acknowledged his rival as “incredibly decent” while thanking his electorate, supporters and his mother.

“Serving our community in parliament has been the greatest honour of my life,” Mr Ward said.

“When it comes to elections, the people always get it right and it is with humility and honour that I look forward to continuing to work hard and get results for the people of our community as the local Member for Kiama.

“I want to thank the people of our community for putting their faith and trust in me for the fourth time. Thank you to the hundreds of people who worked on my campaign and backed me all the way.

Member for Kiama Gareth Ward on election day. Picture: Jane Dempster

“To those who didn’t vote for me for whatever reason, I respect your decision and I am here to serve those who voted for me and those who didn’t.

“I want to acknowledge the other candidates who contested this election. I want to particularly acknowledge Labor’s candidate Katelin McInerney who I found to be incredibly decent, dedicated and hardworking. She deserves every accolade for her efforts in this contest and she can be proud of the results she achieved on election day.

“This election victory may have seemed impossible to some. I received no preferences from any party and I was deeply disappointed with the smear campaign by Unions NSW. I dare say many decent union members would be disgusted if they knew how their union fees were being spent.

“Finally, I want to thank my family who have supported and encouraged me all the way. In particular, my mum Margaret put in an incredible effort and I certainly wouldn’t be celebrating this win without her efforts.”