Nationals WA reveal three Albany nominees in WA-first community preselection ahead of 2021 State Election

The Nationals WA have revealed three “local champions” who will vie for the party’s candidacy in Albany ahead of the 2021 State Election. In what is believed to be a WA-first approach, the Nationals WA last month launched a “community preselection” process to determine their candidate. Members of the public were encouraged to put their hand up to contest the election. Today, party leader Mia Davies was in Albany to announce the three endorsed nominees: — Rod Pfeiffer, Foodbank Albany manager — Delma Baesjou, planning consultant — Darren Bennett, Bankwest relationship manager The nominees have five weeks to campaign before the public goes to the polls on August 29. Anyone on the electoral roll in the seat of Albany is eligible to vote. “Not only does it take courage to put yourself forward as a candidate, these three nominees are also participating in a Western Australian first process,” Ms Davies said. “We have three local champions seeking the backing of the Albany community for preselection as part of this unique opportunity. “Our nominees now have the chance to engage directly with their community, highlight their goals and aspirations for Albany and set a clear agenda for why they should be the next Member for this important regional centre. “We are encouraging community members to do the same — ask questions, learn about Delma, Darren and Rod and get to know why they want to represent you in State Parliament.” The Nationals WA candidate will contest the seat of Albany against Labor’s Rebecca Stephens, the Liberal Party’s Scott Leary and One Nation candidate Michelle Kinsella. The Greens WA are yet to announce a candidate for Albany. Albany is expected to be one of the most hotly-contested electorates in WA after the retirement of veteran Labor MP Peter Watson, who has held the seat since 2001. Pick up your copy of Tuesday’s Advertiser to hear from the three nominees.