The resounding answer to that question is "Yes".

It is the height of rudeness and lack of basic decency. It is a classic example of political petty mindlessness.

Phil Donato, as the democratically elected representative of the people of the Orange, Forbes and Parkes districts, is entitled to the courtesy of an invitation to attend official events even those orchestrated by the National Party.

As evidenced in the CWD's photograph of the opening of the Southern Feeder Road bridge, a bloke called Sam Farraway seems to get an invitation to the very events, which Phil Donato is excluded from.

Well, the question in many people's minds is "Who is Sam Farraway?".

The website of the New South Wales Parliament tells us that Sam Farraway is a Member of the Legislative Council and hence not democratically elected by the people.

The website tells us that Sam is a Bathurst-based small businessman, who was "appointed" to Parliament in 2019 by the National Party and his appointment is to at least 2027.

It is difficult to fathom how Sam Farraway from Bathurst is invited and fronts up to official events in Orange when the duly elected representative of the people of Orange is excluded.

This childish and unacceptable conduct must cease.

I, along with the vast majority of decent citizens of the Orange electorate, expect basic decency and courtesy to be extended to our State Member, Phil Donato.

Andrew Gee, whom I respect, the National Party as well as the Mayor and Councillors of the Orange City Council should ensure that this occurs.

I will watch with interest to see what invitations and by whom are extended to Phil in the future.

I will watch with greater interest to see what events Phil is excluded from.