Johns River

The 2008 State By-Election

Learning his electorate was clearly a top priority for Port Macquarie MP Peter Besseling during the recent state by-election for the seat of Port Macquarie.

Besseling was the only front-runner to appear at our JRCPA planning meeting at the hall in July with the RTA and Council, and one of only two (along with Lisa Intemann) appearing at the recent Moorland planning meeting just before the election.

Tony Galati, Our JR Candidate

Both meetings, and the candidates debate in Laurieton, were attended by local Johns River candidate Tony Galati, who ran an underdog campaign highlighting his business experience and common-sense solutions.   Mr. Galati did manage to garner the support of 16% of votes in Johns River (1% for the electorate), versus 29% for Mr. Besseling, close behind the Nationals at 35% (up from 25% against Rob Oakeshott in 2007).

Village Support Appreciated!

Having a State MP who understands our village issues brings much-needed support for our village design efforts. Even whilst working with Rob Oakeshott, Peter Besseling took the time to examine and help support the Johns River community, meeting with our Management Committee members and residents alike.

His thoughtful advice and comments on dealing with government departments were of true assistance to our planning process, and Besseling is particularly well-placed now as a State MP to assist with RTA- and other state government-related issues and solutions.

The continued support of  both our new independent MPs can only bode well for our upcoming funding drive to get our great village plans turned into the peaceful village centre we all deserve!