Council
14 February, 2025
Cooke endorses Chaffey for Parkes
NSW Nats MP, Steph Cooke endorses Jamie Chaffey for the federal seat of Parkes at the 2025 election
STEPH Cooke, the NSW National Party MP and Member for Cootamundra, has thrown her full support behind Jamie Chaffey, the former Mayor of Gunnedah, in his bid to become the next Federal Nationals member for the seat of Parkes. Cooke's endorsement of Chaffey’s candidature, comes as the electoral map for Parkes has expanded to encompass new areas, including West Wyalong, Forbes, and Parkes itself, which were previously part of the Riverina seat, held by former Nationals Deputy Prime Minister, Michael McCormack. It also comes with less than 100 days left until a federal election must be called by Labor Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese.
The boundary change means McCormack’s electorate now stretches further east to cover Yass and the surrounding areas. The shift highlights the increasing importance of regional voices in federal politics, with Chaffey set to become a key figure in advocating for the needs of rural and agricultural communities championing for better roads, telecommunications, health access, education resources, more policing and lower costs of living.
During her endorsement, Cooke praised Chaffey’s tireless campaigning, highlighting his deep connection to regional communities and his relentless advocacy for farmers and producers in the area. Cooke noted, in particular, Chaffey's support of Mallee and Broombush farmers, who are currently locked in a dispute with the ALP-led NSW government over land classification.
While focusing on his own campaign, Chaffey did highlight how the ALP and Greens don’t believe in nor care about rural Australia given he has been campaigning for six months across his seat – 51% of NSW, and hasn’t even heard about any other candidate. It is not even known yet if there is an ALP or Greens candidate for the seat of Parkes merely three months out from polling day.
Cooke meanwhile believes Chaffey is not only capable but the best person for the seat now that Mark Coulton is retiring from Parliament after 17 years.
“Jamie Chaffey has been a passionate and outspoken advocate for rural communities whether it be as Chair of the Country Mayors Association or other roles such as Mayor of Gunnedah,” said Cooke.
“I stand behind him in his mission to ensure that regional NSW is given the support it deserves.”
Both Cooke and Chaffey were in West Wyalong last week, speaking directly with local constituents, including Richard Davis, a Mallee farmer and producer of Eucalyptus oil.
“Seeing Jamie Chaffey’s commitment to the people of the regions in action is inspiring,” Cooke said.
“He doesn’t just talk the talk - he gets out there, listens to concerns, and fights for solutions. That’s exactly the kind of representation and leadership we need in Canberra.”
Cooke also highlighted Chaffey’s dedication to ensuring rural NSW thrives, from supporting local industries to advocating for better infrastructure and services that are vital for regional communities to prosper.
“Jamie is a strong and determined voice for the people of the Parkes electorate, and his background as a former Mayor means he knows how to bring people together to work toward real change. “That’s why I’m confident he will be an outstanding representative for this region in Parliament,” Cooke concluded.
As the campaign continues, Chaffey is expected to build on his strong grassroots support and push forward with policies that champion the interests of the rural communities now encompassed within the new boundaries of Parkes.
With Cooke’s endorsement and the continued backing of regional stakeholders like Richard Davis, Chaffey’s campaign is poised to make a significant impact as voters head to the polls - particularly given the fact we are yet to see any other candidate of note.
Read More: West Wyalong
