Dugald Saunders has been preselected as the Nationals candidate for Dubbo for the 2019 state election.
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The former ABC radio host defeated NSW Rural Woman of the Year Jillian Kilby and Zoo2Zoo founder Andrew McKay at a meeting of the Dubbo Nationals branch on Saturday.
Speaking after his preselection, Mr Saunders said he hoped to prove a “normal” person could have a say and influence change in Parliament.
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“I’ve been part of this community now for over 12 years and I’ve been talking about the issues that matter and … I thought it was time to start looking at a different way that I could contribute,” he said.
He pointed to the drought and power prices as the two main issues he wanted to address.
“It’s a federal issue essentially but NSW and the Nationals have a very clear policy on power and it’s what everyone keeps telling us is ‘we want cheaper power, we want reliable power’,” Mr Saunders said.
“That’s exactly what people want to see into the future so I’m helping, hopefully, to drive that agenda forward.”
He acknowledged recent drought support from the state and federal governments, but said there was “more support needed” for businesses beyond the agriculture sector “that are doing it really tough as well”.
“I want to be part of a very strong leadership team into the future and make sure that we get the sort of things we have been receiving for the past decade, we keep that into the future and we keep striving to make everyone’s life better,” Mr Saunders said.
“That’s what I want to do, I want to make your life better.”
NSW Nationals leader John Barilaro and Dubbo MP Troy Grant were on hand to announce Mr Saunders’ candidacy, with Mr Grant commending the man he hopes will replace him.
“His campaign might be Dugald for Dubbo, but the reality is it’s Dugald for you,” Mr Grant said.
“A vote for Dugald is a vote for yourself and your future, and your family’s future.
“A vote for Dugald is … the one pathway that you have to make your life better and to make sure you have access to the services and the things you need in your life and to get those power prices down.”
Mr Saunders remains on indefinite leave from the ABC, but said he would consult with management as soon as possible about his future with the national broadcaster.
