Coker takes Corangamite, Henderson eyes Senate

Libby Coker (centre) alongside Chloe Shorten and volunteers in Ocean Grove during the campaign. Photo: MICHAEL CHAMBERS

THE fight for Corangamite is over, with incumbent Liberal MP Sarah Henderson conceding victory to Labor challenger Libby Coker last week.

However, Ms Henderson’s absence from federal politics may be extremely short, as she is seeking to take the Senate seat just vacated by Mitch Fifield.

With 81 per cent of votes counted in the extremely marginal seat on May 22, Ms Coker had a 2,206-vote lead on Ms Henderson, and the Liberal MP decided that postal votes would not enable her to close the margin and hold the seat.

Ms Coker – who resigned as a Surf Coast Shire councillor on Monday – acknowledged Ms Henderson’s “hard work and determination” over the past six years.

“Thank you to all of my volunteers and staff for your passion and commitment throughout the campaign. Together, we knocked on thousands of doors and made tens of thousands of phone calls to Corangamite residents and it made the difference,” Ms Coker said.

“I recognise that not everyone supported our campaign, but I will be someone who brings people together to deliver the best outcomes for our community.

“During the campaign, the Liberals made big promises to the people of Corangamite. I will work to ensure that these commitments are delivered, so our region doesn’t get left behind.”

Ms Henderson said it had been an incredible honour to serve the people of the electorate.

“Working together, we have delivered major infrastructure projects such as the Princes Highway duplication between Winchelsea and Colac, the Great Ocean Road safety upgrade and a new international terminal for Avalon Airport.

“On so many issues, it has been an honour to stand up and fight for the people I have proudly represented with determination and integrity.”

Announcing her intentions on Monday to seek endorsement for the Senate casual vacancy, Ms Henderson said she believed she had much to offer the people of Victoria.

“If successful, I would seek to base myself in the Geelong region.

“Regional Victoria, with its diverse industries, agricultural produce and unique environment, is so important to the prosperity of our state.”

Ms Coker’s Anglesea Ward replacement on council will be decided by countback or byelection in the coming weeks.