Paterson hopefuls give final pitches to NOTA readers

AUSTRALIANS head to the polls on Saturday to determine the political direction of the region and nation.

A spirited election campaign is coming to an end locally, where 10 hopefuls have entered the race to become the Paterson electorate’s next Federal representative.

With days to go until voting closes, News Of The Area offered each of the 10 registered candidates the opportunity to provide a “final pitch” of 150 words to our readership.

Below are the responses we received (in the order they appear on the ballot).

Meryl Swanson (Labor):

“The people of Paterson, from Maitland to the Bay and all that’s in between, know that they need someone who will stand up for them in Parliament – someone who will champion our region and deliver for our communities.

“I’ve worked tirelessly to ensure that the people of Paterson are heard, and that our community gets its fair share.

“After years of waiting for the Liberals, the M1 Extension at Raymond Terrace is finally being delivered by Labor.

“In my last term I secured new commitments for roads in Nelson Bay, Tanilba Bay, and Maitland as well as funding for a new headspace in Port Stephens and $3 Million for Port Stephens Koala Hospital.

“On May 3 we all have a choice, and I hope that I can count on your support to make sure that no one is held back, and no one is left behind.”

Philip Penfold (Independent):

“Paterson has a unique opportunity to elect a truly independent voice – someone who will stand up for locals, not toe a party line.

“I’m Philip Penfold, an experienced local Mayor and a long-time advocate for our region.

“As an experienced crossbencher, I’ll bring balance to Canberra, holding both major parties accountable while pushing for real outcomes: better roads, urgent care clinics, and stronger support for pensioners, small businesses, and families.

“I’m the only candidate who has promised a funded Medicare Urgent Care Clinic for Port Stephens.

“I’m not beholden to party donors – as a self funded candidate, my loyalty lies with the people of Paterson.

“We deserve more than empty promises; we deserve action.

“As your independent Federal Member, I’ll fight for practical solutions, champion local priorities, and ensure our voices are heard where it counts.

This isn’t about left or right – it’s about what’s right for us.

“Let’s make Paterson matter.

“Vote 1 Philip Penfold – an experienced voice with the courage to stand up and deliver for you.”

Paul Johns (Greens):

“Hi, I’m Paul, and I want you to know that if you’re doing it tough, you’re not alone. “While you’re working harder than ever, one in three corporations pay no tax!

“I’ve been working in the disability sector for over twenty five years, and I know what it’s like to come to terms with a disability, and get a grip on technology that helps with everyday living.

“I don’t lose sight of how things need to change for all of us to be on a level playing field.

“We can’t keep voting for the same two parties and expect anything to change.

“This election vote for real action on the issues you care about. Vote Green.”

Laurence Antcliff (Liberal):

“It’s a privilege to stand for the Liberal team in Paterson.

“I was raised in Anna Bay and now live in Chisholm with my wife and our three children.

“I’ve spent a decade working with apprentices – helping hundreds of young people into a trade every year.

“Labor’s offshore wind farm proposal is a direct threat to Port Stephens – risking our environment, tourism, fishing industry and way of life. I will fight to stop it.

“Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has created a cost-of-living crisis which has destroyed living standards.

“I will be a strong voice for Paterson in the federal parliament as part of a Dutton Liberal Government that will get Australia back on track.

“As a candidate, I’ve already secured a promise from a future Liberal Government to invest $24.8 million to upgrade Lemon Tree Passage Road.

“As your federal MP, I’ll stand up for our community and stop Labor’s reckless offshore wind farm.”

April Maree Scott (Independent):

“I’m standing as your Independent candidate for Paterson because our community deserves leadership grounded in integrity, accountability, and real-world experience.

“From surviving homelessness and domestic violence to leading in business, accounting, and community service – I know how to deliver practical solutions.

“For Port Stephens, key priorities include:

● Better infrastructure: Safer roads, reliable transport, and essential services.

● Housing affordability: Locals deserve the chance to live, work, and raise families here.

● Domestic violence crisis: Rates 50 percent higher than the NSW average – we need urgent action.

“I have committed to strongly oppose the current offshore wind farm proposal.

“I support renewables, in the appropriate locations, but this project lacks transparency, proper consultation, and environmental safeguards.

“This reflects a broader failure in government accountability – something I’m committed to challenging at every level.

“As an independent, I answer only to you. No party bosses. No backroom deals.

“Listen. Care. Act. That’s my promise to Port Stephens.”

Daniel Dryden (Legalise Cannabis Party):

“Cannabis remains a hot button issue in Australia.

“One thing we keep hearing is that it’s legal. It’s not.

“Not while you can still be fired, or have your license taken, or face heavy scrutiny, even with a prescription or approval to grow cannabis and hemp.

“$2.1b a year is wasted on prohibition and yet the black market still thrives, with illicit cannabis now worth $5b and is growing.

“The only way to beat the black market is to beat them at their own game.

“With a legal market, the black market loses and the country gains revenue and saves money and ensures kids can’t touch the stuff.

“With relaxed hemp laws, we can increase investment in hemp and its plethora of uses.

“Cannabis for health, hemp for wealth

“Look for the leaf and Vote 1 for the Legalise Cannabis Party.”