Geelong businessman Ron Nelson has officially launched his campaign to become the Liberal Party's candidate for the key Victorian seat of South Barwon, delivering a scathing assessment of the current Labor representation.
Nelson Takes Aim at Incumbent's Record
In a bold move, Nelson declared his intention to contest the pre-selection, directly criticising the sitting member, Labor's Darren Cheeseman. He labelled the electorate's representation as "reprehensible" and accused the MP of being more focused on internal party conflicts than on serving the local community.
Nelson, a former City of Greater Geelong councillor and local business owner, argued that residents of South Barwon deserve better. "The people of South Barwon are not being listened to," he stated, pointing to what he sees as a neglect of core local issues in favour of Melbourne-centric politics.
Focus on Local Issues and Community Neglect
The aspiring candidate highlighted several key areas where he believes the electorate has been let down. He specifically mentioned the ongoing challenges surrounding local infrastructure, cost-of-living pressures, and healthcare services. Nelson pledged to run a campaign deeply rooted in community engagement, vowing to be a visible and accessible representative if pre-selected and subsequently elected.
His announcement sets the stage for a potentially fierce contest in South Barwon, which is considered a marginal seat. The electorate has historically swung between the major parties, making it a crucial battleground in any state election.
Liberal Party's Path to Rebuilding in Geelong
Nelson's candidacy is seen as part of a broader effort by the Victorian Liberal Party to rebuild its presence and appeal in the Geelong region. The party has faced significant electoral challenges in the area in recent state polls. A local business figure with council experience, Nelson represents the type of candidate the Liberals hope can reconnect with voters on practical, grassroots concerns.
The pre-selection process within the Liberal Party for South Barwon is now underway, with Nelson confirming he will actively contest it. The outcome will determine who will face off against Labor's Darren Cheeseman in the next Victorian state election, which is due in November 2026 but could be called earlier.
This move signals an early start to the political campaigning in the region, with Nelson aiming to capitalise on perceived dissatisfaction and present a viable alternative for the voters of South Barwon.
