WA: Victory in the Victoria Park poll
Ben Wyatt
Labor had a comfortable victory in the by-election for the seat vacated by former Premier, Geoff Gallop .
Date: 09 April 2006
Ben Wyatt at work during the campaign.
GEOFF GALLOP'S SUDDEN resignation was a shock to us all. Since 1986, he had represented the people of Victoria Park with unique passion and commitment. It was, of course, an honour and a privilege to be selected as the Labor candidate for the by-election. It was also very daunting.
The campaign started quickly. Meeting at 7.30am each morning to plan the day soon became a habit. I was there everyday, unless there was a train station to visit. As the campaign progressed it became clear there would be a number of other contenders. In the end, there were 10 other candidates on the ballot paper who all had their own issues to talk about.
I focussed all my energy on working to continue the legacy Geoff Gallop had left in Victoria Park.
After 15 years living in the area, I was confident I knew about local issues. But the process of doorknocking thousands of houses over five weeks provided many insights. I heard many concerns about crime and anti-social behaviour. And I became keenly aware of the many traffic problems in our neighbourhoods that frustrate people everyday.
Tired but happy
At countless community meetings, and through many
morning and afternoon teas, I learnt about the work that would be before me as
a Member of Parliament.
The campaign was exhausting and invigorating. The passion of Labor members and supporters constantly overwhelmed me. The dedication of many volunteers including many Members of Parliament was fantastic. Many people spent many hours with me at train stations, shopping centres and doorknocking houses.
The support of former Members Geoff Gallop and Ron Davies as well as National ALP President Warren Mundine was particularly helpful.
In the end the victory was very pleasing. Labor suffered a small swing against us, which was exactly what you would expect after losing such a strong local member. But my team treated the campaign like a marginal seat and have the result, and the blisters, to prove it.
