Comfortable with Nat's concept

Tania Murdock announces her decision yesterday to contest Nationals pre-selection for the North Coast electorate of Richmond.

TANIA MURDOCK is the likely Nationals candidate for the federal seat of Richmond after she announced yesterday she would contest the party preselection.

Nominations for candidacy close on Friday and, although other party supporters have shown some interest, it is unlikely anyone else will put their hand up before week’s end.

Mrs Murdock, who runs two Pottsville pharmacies with her husband Colin and has three boys aged under 11, said she had considered the idea for some months.

“It was a big decision and it has taken me months to get to a point where I’m comfortable,” the 40-year-old said.

“I see The Nationals as the party that best represents the interests of our regional community.”

Mrs Murdock trained in behavioural science, and then in public and environmental health, as well as marketing.

She stood unsuccessfully for Tweed Shire Council at the last local government election.

The needs of the region’s ageing population, public transport, and the growing divide between city and rural areas were among her chief concerns, she said.

“We need a fresh and committed local,” Mrs Murdock said.

Should Tweed councillor Joan van Lieshout stand for the Liberals in Richmond, women will dominate the field of candidates at the next election.

The seat is currently held by Labor’s Justine Elliot by an almost nine per cent margin.