Liberals confirm Upper House ballot

COLAC Otway Shire councillor Joe McCracken is set to join incumbent Western Victoria MP Bev McArthur as a Liberal candidate for the Upper House.

Cr McCracken is the Opposition’s recommended pick for pre-selection in the 2022 election for the region.

The councillor is a Colac teacher and is originally from Beaufort in the Western Victorian region, and said he hoped to make the region a better place if elected.

“I have always taken community representation seriously, and I look forward to the opportunity to serve,” Cr McCracken stated.

“Thank you to all my friends, family and supporters in the community.

“I’m so proud of what we have achieved together. And what we will achieve in the future.”

Cr McCracken announced his intention to take a leave of absence from the council last month while he contests the election.

Meanwhile, Ms McArthur’s re-election chances received a boost as she is likely to take top spot on the Liberal Party ballot for the region.

Ms McArthur, a former Corangamite Shire councillor, will try for a second term in the next Parliament after winning a first stint in the Upper House in 2018.

Ms McArthur said securing infrastructure and service investment for the region’s “vast array of entrepreneurs and enterprises” would be among her priorities ahead of this year’s vote.

“If the Liberal membership in Western Victoria sees fit, I look forward to continuing my work for individuals, families, small business and farmers,” she stated.

“I am humbled by the support I receive from so many impressive, talented and hardworking Victorians.

“I get up every morning to fight (in) their corner.”