‘A short sprint could work well’: Liberal contender for Reid Fiona Martin
Fiona Martin doesn’t seem too fazed about being endorsed as the Liberal candidate for Reid just six weeks out from the federal election.
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Fiona Martin doesn’t seem too fazed about being endorsed as the Liberal candidate for Reid just six weeks out from the federal election.
The child psychologist and mother-of-four must win the marginal seat for the Liberals to retain power.
She has her work cut out for her going up against Labor identity and McKell Institute director Sam Crosby who has been campaigning for over a year.
“Yes it is like starting a new job and getting a deadline on day one but at the same time a short sprint could work well,” Dr Martin said.
“I’m humbled, honoured and excited about running and I think there is a good chance that I could be the first female member for Reid.
“We must hold the seat to retain government; it’s critical.”
Dr Martin, who was endorsed on April 8, has been in the media in her role as a health professional and she is keen to follow in predecessor Craig Laundy’s footsteps in his focus on supporting local sports clubs.
The keen tennis player exudes energy as she excitedly talks about the Liberal’s commitment to spend $3.2 million upgrading sports facilities at Strathfield Park, Goddard Park and at Cintra Park for netball players.
“Sport, fitness and health builds communities and it’s also good for people,” she said.
“I’m the mum who says: ‘Let’s go do the Bay Run this morning, no iPads.”
The Liberals also pledged $50 million to tackle congestion at the intersection of Australia Ave and Underwood Rd on Homebush Bay Drive — the most complained about roundabout in NSW.
“One of the biggest issues for the local area is traffic congestion,” Dr Martin said.
Mr Laundy, who will be very active in Dr Martin’s campaign, hinted there would be an announcement coming on funding from the federal Liberals for the Sydney Metro West project.
Federal Labor has pledged $3 billion and the NSW Liberals have committed $6.4 billion for the key rail line which will link Parramatta and the city via Sydney Olympic Park, North Strathfield, Burwood North, Five Dock and the Bays Precinct.
Dr Martin said the final route was a “work in progress” but she would consult and collaborate with the people of Reid about how many stops there should be in the inner west.
With a Greek/Italian background and as a former student of Rosebank College, Dr Martin will appeal to Reid’s multicultural community.
“Also there is more than 26,000 small businesses in Reid and as a small-business owner myself, I think people will welcome having someone who understands the pressures on small business and the importance of tax relief.
“A strong economy is the number one priority and small businesses are the backbone of our economy.”