Gilgandra's Phillip Naden Independent candidate for the seat of Barwon

Mr Naden’s decision to stand as an independent has been driven by the desire to give the electorate an alternative choice outside of the major parties.

“While I recognise and acknowledge the legacy of the seat that is currently held by the National Party, I believe that the people of the Barwon electorate deserve the choice of independent representation. Of someone who is willing and able to challenge the major parties and hold them accountable for consulting more widely with their electorate on major decisions,” he said.

“I am a local man from Gilgandra with experience in many varied fields and a passion about ensuring my local region remains vibrant.

“This means ensuring that the NSW Government is heavily invested in creating opportunities for our local communities and farmers.”

Mr Naden described his experience growing up in the Barwon region and recounted visiting Nyngan during the 1991 floods.

“The resilience of the community back then to rise above the devastation of the flood stuck with me.”

Mr Naden said he believes Barwon deserves “better representation for our communities” and has a “personal obligation to the electorate as a local to achieve better outcomes for the seat of Barwon. I have the multidisciplinary qualified skills with demonstrated personal and professional experience to hold the seat of Barwon. I am confident that with the support of the community I can achieve this result.”

“While the election is 12 months away, there is a lot of work to do to get to know every part of the electorate, listen, understand the priorities, and secure votes.”

“I am very optimistic that I can challenge the seat and restore the confidence back in the electorate.”