With this election result Berowra is now no longer a ‘very safe seat’ it is now marginal and it’s my hope that Mr Leeser will now focus on matters that matter to our community rather than a failing out of touch party.
With neighbouring electorates being held by Labor in Bennelong and soon to be Independent in Bradfield, it’s clear that Berowra will be in play in 2028. Unless the current Member starts to address issues that matter to the people of Berowra he will not be so lucky next time. I take this opportunity to congratulate Labor and it’s been a pleasure to get to know Benson Koschinski and other candidates on the hustings.
Berowra – and our nation in general – is in the midst of a housing affordability crisis, a climate crisis, a cost of living crisis and a domestic violence crisis and we are rapidly approaching crisis fatigue. Offences against women in our electorate are at an all-time high and we are tired of being overlooked for essential support services because safe seats don’t get the attention they need.
When I was approached to run as the candidate for Berowra, I respected and believed in the three core principles of Climate 200 being Integrity in politics, the climate and respect for women. That has not changed.
During pre-poll voting the Liberal Party employed schoolyard bully-boy tactics, including racist taunts, flagrant sexism and physical intimidation as part of its arsenal. Our corflute posters were removed by LNP operatives in the dead of night in direct violation of election rules. Our volunteers were verbally abused and racially taunted at early-voting centres. Even my 17 year old sons friend had a visit from the Federal police sent by Julians office. Intimidation tactics fuelled by fear of losing the seat.
It has been personally disappointing to experience the right-wing media smear campaign from the Liberal mouth-piece media outlets and it’s this exact behaviour which has cost the Liberals so many seats across the country. They have no respect for women, evidenced by their severe lack of female representation within their own party.
The Independents, the ‘Teal’s’ as the media likes to call us are clearly here to stay and are delivering for their communities who ultimately elect them.
I would like to take a moment to acknowledge some key people who have kept me inspired and resolute during the last few months. To my partner Steve, my children Callum and Georgia, stepsons Glynn and Phil, my ex-husband Stephen, thank you for your love and support.
My volunteers have been amazing, I have received compliment after compliment on a daily basis about the passion of my volunteers, and I’m so proud to have had your support. There have been many moments where I have felt either too dispirited, too tired or just plain worn out, but your unwavering support and encouragement kept me strong.
I thank the donors from within the community. Contrary to claims made in the gutter press, everything we have achieved was paid for from a small, donated pool of private money, personal savings and – most valued of all – donated time.
I will now take a rest and then get back to work, as always, it’s onwards and upwards.
- Tina
