Damian Drum has been presented to a Nationals meeting in Canberra as Murray’s new MP on the day his opponent finally conceded.
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The former Fremantle football coach had 55.24 per cent of the vote on a two candidate preferred basis, at the latest count.
But Liberal candidate Duncan McGauchie waited until Tuesday morning to publicly end what he called an “honest positive campaign focusing on the great potential of Murray”.
“While there are still some days to go before a formal announcement by the Australian Electoral Commission, it is clear that Damian Drum and the National Party will secure victory in the seat of Murray,” he said.
“In particular, I congratulate Damian for showing remarkable discipline over a long and intense election campaign.”
Mr Drum was one of 22 Nationals MPs and senators to meet on Tuesday.
Senator Bridget McKenzie, who spent election night in Wangaratta to support Indi candidate Marty Corboy, was also at the meeting.
Infrastructure Minister Darren Chester touted her for a possible minister position based on campaigning for education issues.
"I'd love to see Bridget get a promotion but it is not a decision I get to make,” he said.
Meanwhile, Mr Corboy announced he would not seek pre-selection to become Mr Drum’s replacement in the Victorian upper house.
He said many Nationals members had approached him to consider the position, but he wanted to focus on strengthening relationships with Wodonga businesses and the electorate.
“It is important that Damian’s replacement has the enthusiasm to continue the work of representing the many communities that the northern Victoria region covers,” Mr Corboy said.
“Considering the recent federal election result in Indi and the significant contribution my family and business has made over the past nine months, I do not feel that it is appropriate for me to nominate for the vacant position.”