By Brendan Rees
Labor candidate Pauline Richards is headed towards a resounding win in the seat of Cranbourne following the state election on Saturday 24 November.
With more than 73 per cent of votes counted, Ms Richards had polled 25,833 votes, giving her a 60.82 per cent hold of the two-party preferred votes – ahead of Liberal candidate Ann-Marie Hermans who was sitting on 39.19 per cent.
This comes as Labor had held the Cranbourne seat by only 2.34 per cent at the 2014 election.
The seat, which is Victoria’s fastest–growing electorate, with enrolments jumping 35 per cent since 2014, had nine candidates vying for the electorate.
Schools, public transport, roads, crime, and health were shaping as the key issues to decide who took Cranbourne .
In a statement, Ms Richards thanked the Cranbourne community for placing their trust in the Andrews Labor Government.
“I am honoured and humbled by the strength of the local support as it appears likely that Labor will continue to represent this community,” she said.
“I would particularly like to thank the hundreds of local community members who volunteered on the campaign, spending hours and day’s side-by-side telling their stories about how Labor supports an inclusive and optimistic vision for everyone in Cranbourne.
“I would like to particularly thank Jude Perera for his amazing service. He has left big shoes to fill and I will endeavour to continue his work.
“Our community is strong, diverse and Cranbourne is a great place to live,” she added. “I look forward to working closely with you all over the years ahead.”
Retiring Labor MP Jude Perera, who has held the Cranbourne seat since 2002, said it had been an “honour and a privilege” in serving the local community.
“I wish the new Member for Cranbourne, Pauline Richards all the very best and I’m sure Pauline will do a great job working for our local area,” he said.
Derryn Hinch’s Justice Party candidate Jason Soultanidis attracted 4.54 per cent of primary votes, while Transport Matters candidate Tarlochan Singh had garnered 3.62 per cent of votes.
Greens candidate Jake Tilton received 3.50 per cent of primary first preference votes.
Ms Hermans has been contacted for comment.
