Six per cent swing from Liberals in by-election
Jacqui Scruby has defeated Liberal Georgia Ryburn to become the new member for Pittwater, following a by-election on 19 October.
While at the time of writing the count was ongoing, Ms Ryburn has conceded victory, with Ms Scruby winning 56% of the vote on a two-party preferred basis.
Ms Scruby has been vindicated after losing by the smallest of margins in last year’s State Election to former member, Rory Amon, who resigned in August. Mr Amon has been charged with 10 counts of historical child sexual assault. The matter was mentioned in the Sydney Downing Centre on 24 October. Mr Amon denies all charges.
Backed by the environment-focussed Climate 200 fundraising group, Ms Scruby told PL there were many reasons why she ultimately won the vote in what was a two-horse race between herself and Ms Ryburn. “I think the predominant one is that voters had confidence in the community-backed independent model. What they see in Sophie Scamps as the federal member, and Michael Regan next door at the state level, is that independents can represent their communities and deliver for their communities.
“I think people also realise that a fresh way of doing politics might actually revitalise delivery for our electorate.”
While Ms Scruby was yet to secure an electorate office when she spoke to PL, she says she will ‘hit the ground running’ given the 2023 parliament started 18 months ago. Long-term priorities will include funding for Wakehurst Parkway, re-opening the Narrabeen athletics track and addressing cuts to allied health services. “But my priority now will be engaging with every minister and advocating for our electorate. And also understanding the NSW Government’s agenda and how it relates to Pittwater.”
This will include confirming that Mona Vale Hospital will not be sold and whether services there could be extended. Ms Scruby is also planning to engage the community through ‘town hall’ type meetings and will be inviting people to connect with her through a soon-to-be- launched parliamentary website.
The Whale Beach resident was grateful to her ‘teal army’ for their help in her campaign. “This was a community campaign. Everyone just rallied together very quickly and that was amazing and I couldn’t have done it without them.”