THE new executive of the Orange branch of Country Labor has wasted no time in preparing for next week’s budget announcement by federal Treasurer Joe Hockey.
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Newly elected president Bernard Fitzsimon and secretary Joe Maric met at Duntryleague with federal Country Labor candidate Jess Jennings yesterday to plan the public forum on the budget to be held on June 10.
On Monday night Mr Fitzsimon was elected as president of the Orange Country Labor branch taking over from Gavin Hillier who served in the role last year.
Mr Hillier is now senior vice-president, while Rob Mihailovic has taken on the position of treasurer and Joe Maric elected as secretary.
“The pressure is now on to rebuild and reinvigorate Country Labor,” Mr Fitzsimon said.
He said the priorities for the local branch will be jobs, health, education and infrastructure.
“Our branch will be taking a more moderate stance on issues affecting the community,” Mr Fitzsimon said.
He said Country Labor is now focused on relating to constituents in rural and regional areas, which is one reason why shadow treasurer Chris Bowen has agreed to visit Orange for a public forum at Duntryleague on June 10.
“We invite anyone from the community to come along and be part of the forum.
“We will have Dr Jess Jennings and Chris Bowen on the panel along with local residents,” Mr Fitzsimon said.
He said the local Labor branch is delighted Mr Bowen has accepted their offer.
“Its great to know that Country Labor is on the radar,” Mr Fitzsimon said.
Mr Fitzsimon said he is committed to representing the interests of the people of Orange in his new role.
“The community is demanding more from its politicians and we want to make an impact with rural and regional voters.”
Mr Fitzsimon stood as the Country Labor candidate for the seat of Orange in the recent state election.
He is also publicity officer for the Orange branch of Push for Palliative.
