The definition of insanity, we’re told, is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting a different result.
So I thought it was worth reflecting on how we’ve been going in the electorate of Farrer over the past 20 or so years, and whether we are happy with the political representation.
Do we believe our voices have been effectively heard on key issues, such as water, health, cost of living, housing availability and affordability, road funding and government cost shifting?
Are we better or worse off now than we were, say, two decades ago?
If we do not think we are better off, are we prepared to use our vote at the upcoming Farrer by-election to call for change? Or will we stick with the status quo?
In my view, the major political parties have thrown Farrer under the bus … we’ve been collateral damage for politicians who are more concerned about their careers.
There is no better example than the Murray-Darling Basin Plan, the foundations for which were laid nearly 20 years ago when the Liberal Party wanted an environmental initiative to ‘hang its hat on’.
The result has been a poorly modelled political plan that threatens our region’s economic stability.
But, hey, it gets votes for major parties in South Australia and our capital cities.
During the by-election campaign it is important we talk to candidates about water and other key policy areas, to ensure they are going to represent Farrer, not themselves or their party.
This is an opportunity to Fight for Farrer. Let’s not waste it.
PS: Thanks for all the incredible feedback to this column.
• Authorised by Vicki Meyer, ‘Werrina’, 14 McCallum Road, Warragoon NSW 2710.
