No way back for Liberal renegades as former senator Eric Abetz seals spot on ticket for Franklin

The political resurrection of former long-time Tasmanian Senator Eric Abetz has been officially signed off, but there is no way back to two renegade Liberals who defected to the cross benches.

Former Liberal Senator Eric Abetz has been officially endorsed for the next state election. Pic: Chris Kidd

The political resurrection of former long-time Tasmanian Senator Eric Abetz has been officially signed off, with the Liberal stalwart’s preselection ratified by party bosses ahead of the next state election.

But the door has been slammed on a potential return to the Liberal fold by renegade former party members John Tucker and Lara Alexander, with state director Peter Coulson confirming the MPs had not sought pre-selection, and would definitely not be considered should they apply.

While Mr Abetz’s place on the Liberal ticket all but assured after a vote by the party’s rank-and-file over the weekend, the his preselection still needed to be confirmed by the state executive.

In unveiling a select number of candidates as part of a “first round” of pre-selections, Liberal Party President Michael McKenna said Mr Abetz would be joined by Kingborough Councillor Aldo Antolli, Meander Valley deputy mayor Stephanie Cameron, and former Tasmanian Farmers and Graziers Association Wayne Johnston, as four “experienced voices” on the party’s ticket.

“Governing is a serious business and our experienced and united team stands in stark contrast to our inexperienced opponents who continue to be divided and stand for nothing”, Mr McKenna said.

Mr Antolli, who is also chief executive of registered charity Pathways Tasmania, will line up with Mr Abetz in Franklin, together with sitting members Nic Street and Dean Young.

Mr Johnston, who is currently the Meander Valley mayor, will run in Lyons with sixth-generation farmer Ms Cameron.

Former TFGA President Wayne Johnston in his potato crop at Meander. PICTURE CHRIS KIDD

Mr Abetz spent 28 years in the Australian Senate, serving as a senior minister in both the Howard and Abbott governments, before being relegated to third spot on the Liberal Senate ticket at the 2022 election.

According to the Liberal Party biography that accompanied his preselection announcement, Mr Abetz is a long-time resident of Franklin, a member of numerous community organisations, and an energetic “straight talker”.

“Eric Abetz brings real-world experience, sound judgement, and a reputation for getting things done,” the official bio reads.

“Motivated by a genuine commitment to serve our community, with a track record to prove it, the Tasmanian Parliament will be enhanced by Eric Abetz’ presence.”

Chudleigh-based mother of two Ms Cameron is described as having a broad career in hospitality, aged care, and agriculture, and as someone committed to actively listening to the diverse voices in her region.

As Pathways Tasmania boss, Mr Antolli is described as leading initiatives to free people from adult drug addiction, and in providing vital support and shelter for homeless teenagers.

Liberal candidate for Franlin Aldo Antolli

Mr Johnston’s background includes a decade-long stint with the TFGA, where his advocacy helped in the development of the Meander Dam and Huntsman Lake, and in significant water infrastructure projects across Tasmania.

The four new names join the existing members of Parliamentary Liberal Party who were all re-endorsed, including Felix Ellis, Roger Jaensch, Premier Jeremy Rockliff in Braddon, Michael Ferguson and Simon Wood in Bass, Guy Barnett and Mark Shelton in Lyons, Mr Street and Mr Young in Franklin, and Simon Behrakis and Madeleine Ogilvie in Clark.

Sixth-generation Tasmanian farmer Stephanie Cameron.

The next state election is due in mid-2025, but with the Government in minority since the defections of Mr Tucker and Ms Alexander, it has been suggested that Premier Rockliff may opt to bring on a vote this year.

Originally published as No way back for Liberal renegades as former senator Eric Abetz seals spot on ticket for Franklin