LABOR has chosen a Strathfield based political science student to run for Goulburn at the March 26 election.
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Crystal Validakis is a 20-something NSW Young Labor star who studies political science at Sydney University.
Independent candidate Rob Parker asked yesterday if she had “finished O-Week yet”.
"They have effectively put in a kid,” he said of his former party.
The Goulburn State Electorate Council (SEC) of the ALP unanimously endorsed Ms Validakis on the weekend.
“Despite early interest, no local nomination was received and Crystal put herself forward for consideration by local branches,”
SEC President Roger Lucas said in the announcement yesterday.
“She is an impressive and enthusiastic campaigner. “She is serious about her political ambitions, but very realistic about her chances in this seat.”
Ms Validakis will take on Liberal incumbent Pru Goward, Independent Rob Parker, The Greens’ Maree Byrne and Christian Democrat Adrian Van Der Byl.
Mr Lucas said Ms Validakis told party members: “I’m not sure if Pru Goward remembers what it’s like to be young, ambitious and idealistic, but I believe we all have to start engaging in the political process early if we want to be part of the future of politics in this country.”
Mr Lucas said her endorsement is not dissimilar to the way in which the Liberal Party “parachuted” Ms Goward into the seat in 2007.
For the full story, please see the print edition of Wednesday's Goulburn Post, available from our Auburn Street office and from leading newsagencies across the region.
