General News
15 September, 2022
Greens announce Ripon candidate as election nears
As the November state election draws near, Clunes resident Earl James has been preselected as the Greens candidate for the seat of Ripon. Ripon is one of Victoria’s most marginal seats, with current member — the Liberals’ Louise Staley —...
As the November state election draws near, Clunes resident Earl James has been preselected as the Greens candidate for the seat of Ripon.
Ripon is one of Victoria’s most marginal seats, with current member — the Liberals’ Louise Staley — retaining the seat by just 15 votes after a recount at the last election in 2018.
Labor has already announced its candidate for the 2022 election, Yandoit resident Martha Haylett, and with the Greens now announcing Mr James, the campaign for Ripon is heating up.
Mr James is a teacher and union organiser and key issues he’ll be campaigning on include rail transport for areas like Maryborough and integrity in politics.
“The Greens have a plan to strengthen IBAC, stop the revolving door from parliament to lobbyist and establish a parliamentary integrity commissioner,” a statement from Mr James read.
“With more Greens in Parliament we’ll hold the next government to account by introducing strong integrity, transparency and anti-corruption standards.”
Mr James started an online petition in May to support more trains for Maryborough, Clunes, Creswick and Talbot — a priority if he were to be elected — which has attracted 119 signatures.
“Regional Victorians living in transport poverty need more sustainable options. The Green’s plan to improve public transport will do this and attack the cost of living crisis,” Mr James said.
“Ripon has two main train lines but many people live in transport poverty due to the infrequency of the services.
“The Greens have a plan to increase the frequency of regional buses with good connections to regional train services.
“The people of Ripon have real change now within their grasp. Choosing a sustainable future by voting Green will send a powerful message.
“Your vote is powerful.”