CONAGHAN NATS' PICK FOR COWPER

KEMPSEY police prosecutor Patrick Conaghan has today been preselected by grassroots members of The Nationals to contest the next federal election for the New South Wales seat of Cowper.

Deputy Prime Minister and Nationals’ Leader Michael McCormack said Mr Conaghan’s experience will be an asset to the community.

“Patrick has made a career of caring for the community and protecting them, both as a police officer and prosecutor,” Mr McCormack said.

“His experience working with local communities will help him be the representative the Cowper electorate can rely on.

“He brings an understanding of local communities, local issues and a local focus and be part of a team which can deliver for the North Coast.

“The Nationals are helping small businesses create jobs, we are investing in the local roads and bridges the region needs and delivering the Coffs Bypass the community has fought for over many years.

“I am looking forward to working with Patrick to keep Cowper front and centre of the Liberal and Nationals’ Government’s agenda.”

Deputy Nationals’ Leader Bridget McKenzie said Mr Conaghan has the energy and enthusiasm to stand up for the people of Cowper.

“From local government to the local court, Patrick has shown energy and enthusiasm in his career and we are excited to work with him.

“The Nationals have delivered record funding for mobile towers, the Pacific Highway the Coast deserves and small business tax cuts.

“He follows hard-working Luke Hartsuyker, who helped design the mobile blackspot program which is ending Labor’s neglect of regional communications.”