FORMER Wangaratta councillor Julian Fidge’s decision to nominate for Ovens Valley in November’s Victorian election puts an end to what may have been a quiet campaign for the seat.
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Whether they like or loathe him, voters will ensure Dr Fidge’s candidacy makes for a closer contest in Ovens Valley.
It remains to be seen whether that will be the “neck and neck” battle with Nationals MP Tim McCurdy that Dr Fidge believes it will be.
Mr McCurdy had been tipped to hold the new electorate with a 19.2 per cent margin, but Dr Fidge’s decision to stand may give voters the opportunity to rethink their choice.
He believes his involvement in the Wangaratta Council saga may put some voters offside, but it may also win him support from those who believe he did achieve the reform he had promised the city’s ratepayers, in spite of the council’s sacking.
There will also be those who agree with his priorities for further local government reform and increased infrastructure funding for projects, including the Big Buffalo Dam.
One thing is for certain; Dr Fidge’s candidacy promises some interesting times in the next two months.
