Pat’s Weekly Column – May 17, 2021

This week it was a pleasure to catch up with my colleagues who are members of the National Party to discuss the federal budget, our performance since I was elected to represent you in 2019, and how we are going to continue to meet the needs of all residents across the mid-north coast.

These are regular meetings that ensure I am focussed on the things that matter to you, and that I am advocating for and representing you appropriately on Federal Government matters when I am in Canberra.

I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to lead our community throughout what has been a particularly challenging time, and I am equally thrilled to let you know that my colleagues have endorsed me to be your National Party candidate for the next Federal Election.

During my time as your Federal member we’ve experienced drought, bushfires, the COVID-19 pandemic and most recently the devastating flooding. There really has been no normal, which is why I’m so proud of how our community has gone above and beyond in dealing with these significant issues, and perhaps most importantly how we are working together to recover.

This is what the recent Federal Budget is all about, recovery. Never before have we experienced an issue like COVID-19, and we shouldn’t underestimate the successful way the government has minimised the health and safety impacts for Australians. We’ve protected jobs and our economy and adopted numerous important policies to ensure we remain the best and safest country in the world.

I will continue to advocate for more doctors across our region, improve outcomes for aged care, and focus on regional issues that ensure the Cowper electorate receives its fair share of funding, addressing what’s important to our way of life.

I thank my colleagues and our entire community for having the faith in me to continue delivering for the mid-north coast.

I’m listening, and I really look forward to continuing to work hard for you today, tomorrow and into our bright future.