Labor reveals new South Barwon candidate

LABOR has officially moved on from former South Barwon representative Darren Cheeseman, with Premier Jacinta Allan endorsing the seat’s new candidate on social media ahead of November’s state election.

Yesterday (Wednesday, January 28), Allan posted a photograph of herself next to Rebecca Thistleton, describing the latter as “knowing what what matters most – because she lives it every day”.

“She’s a mum of two young kids. An Armstrong Creek local, raising her family with her husband, James.

“Her kids – Tommi and Josie – are her whole world. Tommi goes to the local school, Josie’s in kinder.”

Allan said Thistleton, like every parent, wanted her children to get the support they need to thrive.

“That’s what drives her work. She’s focused on making things fairer, through strong public education, cost of living support, and building communities.

“She believes in backing families. And making sure no child is left behind.

“It’s why we’re so proud she’s our Labor candidate for South Barwon.”

Thistleton is aiming to win the seat now occupied by Cheesman, who won as Labor’s candidate for South Barwon in 2018 and defended the seat in 2022.

In May 2024, the Premier asked for Mr Cheeseman’s resignation from Labor, which followed multiple allegations of inappropriate behaviour towards female staff, as detailed in Premier asks for South Barwon MP’s resignation.

Now sitting as an independent, he has asked very few questions in state Parliament and has kept a very low profile since then.

Originally a long-serving MP with roles including parliamentary secretary, his earlier appointments and shifts were covered in Cheeseman appointed to new role. :