Johns River

The Nationals "clean sweep" of our local electorates on the Mid North Coast has meant some top party members in key government ministries.

Our new Deputy Premier Mr. Andrew Stoner is taking on a new role as Minister for Trade & Investment, and has vowed to appoint at least one representative from the regions on the board of Infrastructure NSW. 

   His commitment to ensure the voice of regional Australia is heard loudly and clearly will be evident in his actions as the Minister for Regional Infrastructure and Services as well.

A new special business unit is being set up for Mr. Stoner's office within the Premier's office, where Mr. Stoner's business education and background will come to the fore as he puts in place a business plan for the state.

With the close working relationship during the campaign period between Leslie Williams and Andrew Stoner, we surely hope our region's infrastructure needs are front-and-centre in the Coalition party room.

New Roads Minister

Duncan Gay has been given the Roads and Ports portfolio, and will have a steep learning curve, taking over the reigns from Andrew Stoner, who was shadow minister for years doing the same.

In addition to our usual complaints about the condition of regional roads covered by RTA funding, the new Minister will be urged by the local bypassed communities to continue and finish with the excellent program of locality gateway signage, started under the previous government after persistant community pressure.