Fisher covers the southern part of the Sunshine Coast, from Caloundra north to Mooloolaba on the coast and inland to Maleny and the Glass House Mountains. It originally extended inland to Gympie and Kingaroy when it was created in 1949, but assumed a progressively more coastal orientation as a result of the area’s rapid development. The seat was a fiefdom of the Adermann family for the first 35 years of its existence, being held for the Country Party first by Sir Charles until 1972 and thereafter by his son Evan. Evan Adermann moved to the new seat of Fairfax in 1984, and Fisher was retained for the Nationals by Peter Slipper.
The seat was one of a number of gains for Labor in Queensland amid the debacle of the 1987 Joh-for-PM push, which had found an ardent proponent in Slipper. For the next two terms it was held for Labor by Michael Lavarch, in which time the eclipse of the Nationals progressed. A redistribution in 1993 made the seat notionally Liberal, prompting Lavarch to move to the new seat of Dickson. Slipper then made an improbable return to the seat as a Liberal, and enjoyed double-digit margins between a 14.0% swing in 1996 and the statewide crunch in 2007, when there was a 7.9% swing to Labor.
Slipper managed to win promotion to parliamentary secretary for finance and administration after the 1998 election, despite lingering memories John Howard may have had of 1987, but he was pushed aside to make way for Peter Dutton after the 2004 election. He became increasingly marginalised thereafter, copping an avalanche of bad press in the local Sunshine Coast Daily newspaper and receiving the smallest swing of any Queensland LNP candidate at the 2010 election, when his margin went from 53.5% to 54.1%. It was reported during the campaign that Howard government minister Mal Brough, who had lost his seat of Longman in 2007, had sought to have Slipper disendorsed in his favour, but that Slipper’s position was secured by the terms of the Liberal National Party merger which guaranteed endorsement to all sitting members.
With a clear expectation that he would not again win preselection, Labor identified Slipper as a weak link in the Coalition after losing its majority at the 2010 election, and bolstered its position slighty by successfully nominating him for the deputy speakership at the expense of Coalition nominee Bruce Scott. Shortly afterwards, Brough confirmed that he would contest preselection in the seat. In November 2011 the government went one better in persuading Slipper to take on the Speaker’s position at the expense of incumbent Harry Jenkins, resulting in his expulsion from the LNP and a fierce campaign against him from elements of the media, most notably Sydney’s News Limited tabloid the Daily Telegraph.
In April 2012, a staffer to Slipper, James Ashby, launched legal action claiming he had been sexually harassed by Slipper, and presented evidence purportedly showing Slipper had misused Cabcharge vouchers. The matter soon embroiled Mal Brough, who initially dismissed suggestions he knew of Ashby’s actions in advance before conceding he had met him on multiple occasions and sought legal advice on his behalf. In December 2012, a Federal Court judge dismissed Ashby’s sexual harassment charge on the grounds that it was an abuse of process in which Brough had been directly involved.
None of this prevented Brough from winning a strongly contested LNP preselection in July, after spearheading a vigorous local recruitment drive which reportedly doubled the local party membership. The preselection contest played out against a backdrop of conflict going back to Brough’s tenure as president of the Queensland Liberal Party before the Liberal National Party merger was effected, which saw Brough stand down from the position over dissatisfaction with the terms of the merger.
A surprise late entrant in the preselection race was James McGrath, who had been the director of the LNP’s hugely successful 2012 state election campaign and was thought to be set to secure preselection for the neighbouring seat of Fairfax. McGrath’s backers included Malcolm Turnbull, Joe Hockey and Julie Bishop. Brough was nonetheless able to win the support of more than half the 350 preselectors in the first round, and McGrath has since been accommodated with Senate preselection. Also in the field were Peta Simpson, director of a local recruitment agency, who had backing from Brough foe Barnaby Joyce; Richard Bruinsma, a former adviser to Slipper; and Andrew Wallace, a barrister.
Labor’s call for Brough to be disendorsed after the Federal Court ruling on the Ashby matter met short shrift from Tony Abbott, who contented that Brough had been “quite transparent and upfront about his involvement”. The following month, Slipper received a Federal Police summons concerning the allegations he had misused Cabcharge vouchers.
In the immediate aftermath of the Ashby ruling, a ReachTel automated phone poll of 661 respondents suggested Brough was unlikely to suffer electoral damage, putting him at 48.4% on the primary vote against a derisory for 2.7% for Peter Slipper (who remained publicly committed to seeking re-election as an independent), 21.2% for Labor, 11.7% for the Greens and 7.4% for Katter’s Australian Party. Brough was viewed favourably by 41.8% of respondents against 34.0% unfavourably, while the respective figures for Slipper were 6.9% and 75.5%. Brough’s involvement in the Ashby matter made 37.3% of respondents less likely to vote for him, against 39.8% for no difference and 22.6% going so far as to say it had made them more likely to vote for him.
just hooking everything back up
blackburnpseph,
A while ago I was asking around if anyone here was interested in matters related to high speed rail. I think you indicated an interest?
BBS I’m certain KAP will get some benefit from anti-Newman sentiment. The key is where the preferences flow.
ah well at least crikey goes….now for the email
[I feel as though I have been press ganged
Especially as I have been in a ‘pox on both their houses’ frame of mind for quite a while now.]
Yes, you’re channeling PVO there — you recognise how awful the Liberals are under Abbott but your DNA cannot let you admit Labor is acceptable.
Hence the intellectually lazy and dishonest “pox on both their houses”. Specious balance at its worse.
Cud Chewer
I do have an interest in the topic. What is your question?
BBS you are not alone on that, the pox factor.
Bbp
How do you think Ballieu and his mob are managing the state?
Hence the intellectually lazy and dishonest “pox on both their houses”. Specious balance at its worse.
Yep, there’s been a lot of that one in recent times.
And one I’m sure the Libs understand well and will endeavor to exploit further. As someone else here said recently, expect Abbott to be as disruptive as possible when Parliament comes back because he knows the press will ultimately go “they’re both as bad as each other” and Labor will suffer from it overall.
[blackburnpseph
Posted Saturday, January 19, 2013 at 10:29 pm | PERMALINK
Mod Lib
I feel as though I have been press ganged]
Nothing like a well regulated militia!
:devil:
…our American friends know all about that.
Well its more than a singular question I guess.
I’m fascinated by the engineering aspects. In particular using engineering to solve cost issues rather than taking costs for granted and then only bothering with the benefits side of things.
I’ve also noticed some serious errors of ommission in the Phase 1 study and whilst I’m looking forward to Phase 2, I’m wondering if there’s any point and any realistic way to talk to the people who matter.
New Yorker aticle today on the emergence of Bennet,the leader of the far-right religious nationist party
_________
A great NY article…which carrirs the Bennet statement that there can NEVER be a Palestinian state…so there can be no two-state solution. and the Palestinians must always remain under Israeli rule…a kind of Apartheid state…and he may be a central figure in the new Israeli Govt after the coming elections
No wonder Obama says that the Israelis no longer know what they want ….
http://www.newyorker.com/reporting/2013/01/21/130121fa_fact_remnick?currentPage=all
[Hence the intellectually lazy and dishonest “pox on both their houses”. Specious balance at its worse.
Yep, there’s been a lot of that one in recent times.
And one I’m sure the Libs understand well and will endeavor to exploit further. As someone else here said recently, expect Abbott to be as disruptive as possible when Parliament comes back because he knows the press will ultimately go “they’re both as bad as each other” and Labor will suffer from it overall.]
Yes, talk about blaming the victim.
I’d hate these “pox on both their houses” dills ever to be involved in domestic violence cases — they’d say, “they’re both as bad as each other” as the poor victim is rushed to hospital.
[Hence the intellectually lazy and dishonest “pox on both their houses”.]
It is actually tragic that the Australian people are faced with a choice of ‘least worst’ rather than something to be positive about. You can be positive – that is your right in a democracy – but I can only feel negative about the choices. The low level of political discourse in this country during this term has not helped. The Libs can take much of the blame for that but the government has done its bit to lower the tone also.
I don’t think I’m intellectually lazy and always give a lot of thought to how I vote. I have basically made my mind up if circumstances remain as they are now but could change if circumstances change. I believe no side of politics should own a persons vote but around 70% of voters obviously disagree with me.
Bbp
What is Labor doing or offering that is so toxic?
[The Libs can take much of the blame for that but the government has done its bit to lower the tone also.]
Yes 90% Libs, maybe 10% ALP in response.
Get stuffed if any poxes should be hurled at ALP.
You would only challenge the cause not the response if you were genuinely concerned about the level of debate in this country.
Thanks davidwh, weirder things have happened I guess. Nonetheless I would think that the voters of Lilley would feel a bit more loyalty to Swan over Rudd, him being their MP for two decades. Its why I’m similarly cynical about those who suggest Anna Bourke will go, considering I know the work she does in her electorate, and the good image she has in Chisholm.
You see- we are Tory Warriors together! I agree with #164 and #165.
The disgust with the pox on both your houses idea comes from the football team supporters who just can’t bring themselves to realise the damage the ALP leadership has done to the ALP brand in recent years.*
* which someone coined “the lurch to the right” I believe
Bugler after the QLD election nothing would surprise me. The LNP did little to deserve the win they did although I would be dishonest if I said I was other than happy they won. Labor lost seats I never thought they would lose.
[Anna Bourke]
I spelt Anna Burke’s name wrong! What a dill.
Victoria @ 158
Not particularly well. It shows that they were totally unprepared to govern when they won. There is also dead wood in the cabinet that should be seen off. However, Ted might have his hands tied there as some may threaten to walk and in his situation with a 1 seat majority he can’t let that happen. I am also concerned that they let things fester – the nurses dispute went on and on, and the teachers now likewise. However, I don’t think Labor under Daniel Andrews are doing much – they are coasting along letting the unions and The Age do the heavy lifting.
[Labor lost seats I never thought they would lose.]
Not sure that’s a good thing. That said, I have years of indoctrination about how terrible Kennett was, my mother being a nurse, my dad a farmer and therefore living in a semi-rural area (I was 5 when he was turfed out, so I don’t really have an independent observation to go on). The current Government in Queensland seems a lot like that Government we had here.
bbp
Fair enough assessment
Bugler @ 173
Of course, very little that Kennett did was overturned by the Bracks and Brumby government. They moderated the rough edges for sure but things that were so controversial at the time such as ‘case mix’ health funding are the preferred model of the current federal government.
[You see- we are Tory Warriors together!]
So you’re a Tory Warrior now?
I thought you said last night it was all a joke?
Can it not still be a joke?
Did you criticise the Amigos formation too or do you just snipe at righties? Hehe:)
Mod Lib:
Tory Warrior is at odds with both your screen name and your repeatedly stated position here in terms of your world view.
Reckon it’s fair enough to ask why someone who calls themselves a moderate Liberal strongly and willingly identifies with the muscular conservatism conveyed through the label of ‘Tory Warrior’.
The Vic Libs are not getting traction. A bit like Bracks in 99, they didn’t expect to win, and still working out what they really stand for. Tensions too within Cabinet I hear with leading Ministers at loggerheads (Davis and Wooldridge) over policy.Ryan overstepped with Overland. And they haven’t fixed the Frankston line. Inge Peulic in trouble with various allegations swirling around re undue involvement in local gov politics. Can’t see Ted reversing the swing.
this is clever work…
http://storify.com/geeksrulz/the-desperation-of-a-liberal-mp
[The Desperation of a Liberal MP? – Отчаяние от либеральной партии?
Greg Hunt has resorted or is at least is supported by an army of spam bots who retweet his tweets. Could it be that he cannot find real people on twitter that like what he says? Who knows. We know the Libs or supporters do run other Spam Bots like LaborDirt. Here is a breakdown of just 1 LNP tweet.]
BBP,
That wouldn’t surprise me much, there was, of course, more to it than just that. The closure of the Swinburn Lilydale campus has caused a ruckus, as well as DSE offices. The Age wasn’t wrong on that. (I am curious why they can’t provide the same insight into the workings of state politics to federal politics). I think the way the next state election will go is anyone’s guess at the moment, so far from an election.
Rossmore @ 179
I agree that the Libs are not getting traction. The ALP has not torn itself apart like the Libs did after 99 and are doing much better in the polls than the Libs ever did after 99. Peter Ryan, who was by far the best media performer diD overstep with Overland but that may be a distant memory unless by some chance it goes to IBAC. Inga Peulich is only a news story because it is January and someone obviously had a few factional scores to settle. I would be inclined to agree with you that it could be terminal – though a long way out. Interestingly Psephos was on here the other day and said that his ALP sources don’t expect to win in 2014.
As we are in the nascent stage I am happy to consider other name suggestions, even from our sworn enemy….the ALP voter (although we have sworn an oath that we will never talk to the enemy!
The Employers, united, shall never be defeated!
😀
…but I will give you some time to think of a better name as now Tory Warrior General Modlib requires some (albeit ineffectual) beauty sleep.
Tory Warrior General davidwh (congrats on your promotion david :)) and Tory Warrior General blackburnpseph (well, you may as well be a General too if everyone else is one) may remain on the battlefield.
Gluten nucked.
A poll, but not on politics…
http://www.couriermail.com.au/news/national/galaxy-poll-finds-australians-have-a-shell-be-right-attitude-to-life/story-fncyva0b-1226557331115
[Galaxy poll finds Australians have a ”she’ll be right” attitude to life
Natasha Bita, National Social Editor
News Limited Network
EASY-going Aussies value time over money – and most see their future as bright.
An exclusive Galaxy poll for News Limited portrays a stoic nation of glass-half-full optimists.
The Mood of Australians survey shows two in every three people are satisfied with their lives.]
http://www.couriermail.com.au/news/national/australians-taking-the-attitude-to-always-look-on-the-bright-side-of-life/story-fncyva0b-1226557336805
[Australians taking the attitude to always look on the bright side of life
Richard Eckersley
News Limited Network
January 19, 2013 11:00PM
AUSTRALIANS have become more relaxed – or resigned – about their lives. ]
Mod Lib:
Can I suggest ‘To Hell with Abbott, Gimme Malcolm’ as an appropriate nick for you! 😀
Good, but too long.
Nice try though!
davidwh While you are here.
Eons ago, in Pollbludger time, you said that Government can announce important stuff, unlike the Opposition.
Abbott said he was doing important work for Australia. When in London.
It would be fantastic if he were willing to tell me what this important stuff is made of.
[Abbott said he was doing important work for Australia. When in London.]
I cant think of anything more important to Australia than having Abbott not in it!
Now, I am really going to bed.
and
WHY CAN I NOT HAVE MY DOSE OF INSIDERS, MEET THE PRESS AND BOLT TOMORROW?
I did suggest Turnbull Terriors confessions.
I’ve been called a torry so many times here it has become meaningless. I’m sure ML is just using that in a satritical way and wearing a huge grin as he does.
[I’m sure ML is just using that in a satritical way and wearing a huge grin as he does.]
Ssshhhh! :devil:
No colluding with the sworn enemy….they eat children you know :devil:
http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/national/cfmeu-calls-for-a-freeze-on-temporary-work-visas/story-fncvk70o-1226557388065
[CFMEU calls for a freeze on temporary work visas
Steve Lewis, National Political Correspondent
News Limited Network
January 20, 2013 12:00AM
A SHARP jump in the number of foreign tradies’ coming to Australia has sparked calls for a freeze in temporary work visas – amid signs a growing number of employers are rorting immigration and workplace laws. ]
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/industrial-relations-minister-russell-wortley-quits-state-cabinet/story-e6frg6n6-1226556446528
[Liberals choose young mayor Glenn Docherty as candidate for South Australia election
by: Exclusive Daniel Wills
From: The Advertiser
January 19, 2013 10:30PM
PLAYFORD Mayor Glenn Docherty will contest the marginal seat of Newland for the Liberal Party at the State Election. ]
also mentions other seats
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/last-chance-for-alexander-downer-to-lead-libs/story-e6frg6n6-1226557051705
[Last chance for Alexander Downer to lead Libs
by: Daniel Wills
From: The Advertiser
January 19, 2013 11:00PM
AS THE window of opportunity closes for former foreign minister Alexander Downer to confirm a move into State Parliament, the Liberal Party rumour mill is going into overdrive. ]
[ (I am curious why they can’t provide the same insight into the workings of state politics to federal politics). ]
Money, Bugler, Money. The Age is going out the back door fast. It is unfortunate that so little media attention is paid to state politics and state governments (of whatever persuasion) not put under more scrutiny. State Government’s first ‘get out of jail free’ card was the abandoning of the state based 7:30 Reports a long time ago. Now the newspapers are winding back state coverage. ABC Radio is about all that is left.
Crikey Abbott was doing what Abbott does best just political spin. Maybe I’m being unfair to him because opposition leaders do have discussions with overseas politicians about alternative policy ideas and even just to maintain relationships. However I stand by what I said about the advantage a government has over an opposition by being able to announce and implement policy. True it often can be a disadvantage however Gillard has controlled this advantage well in the last six months with some key policy announcements which have been impossible for Abbott to oppose.
That’s the advantage on incumbency.
Sorry boss does this mean I am demoted already 🙁
Greg Hunt – shades of Newt in 2011?
http://gawker.com/5826960/
[Update: Only 92% of Newt Gingrich’s Twitter Followers Are Fake
By John Cook
Aug 2, 2011 2:40 PM
Yesterday, we published an item based on a former Newt Gingrich staffer’s claim that Gingrich assembled his 1.3 million Twitter followers—a number that he’s taken to bragging about—in part by buying fake Twitter followers. A lot of people did not think that was true! But today social networking search firm PeekYou announced that it had crunched the data and come to the conclusion that roughly 106,055 of Gingrich’s million-plus followers are real people. The rest are fakes. ]
[Good, but too long.
Nice try though!]
Sorry, I’d forgotten you lot do 3 word slogans max.
From that Dolly Downer article…
[Liberals say Mr Downer has even picked out a fantasy Cabinet, including some heavy-hitters.
Former Democrat senator Natasha Stott-Despoja is said to be a surprise pick for education. She could even enter State Parliament as an independent and be drafted in to the Cabinet, US-style.
Ms Stott-Despoja is the wife of former Liberal staffer Ian Smith, a business colleague of Mr Downer’s. Even he has been proposed publicly as a possible future Liberal leader or senior minister.]
Choosing Alexander.
A delicious name for a movie.
Imagine the fun!
Alexander and Amanda.
Hi all.
Its been a very busy few weeks on the fire front here. Just one thing, has Bemused died? or just been banned?.