Di and her team were out in the campaign ute at the markets and were getting a very positive message about the role of an Independent in this election. We talked to local people and others from outside the electorate. There is definitely a sense that we are moving into a new era in Australian politics.
Down at Victa in the afternoon we met with locals and visitors who once again were united in their concern about the River and expressed their disenchantment with existing parties.
In the evening, Di’s group of local supporters gathered at Sails restaurant at Clayton for a cocktail party to cheer her on and put some dollars into the campaign bin. The party fare was fantastic: an endless supply of delicious finger food and the local wine. It was a breather from the fast pace of the past three weeks since the campaign really started running.
Di gave a brief outline of her impressions of the issues in Mayo from her times out and about meeting electors. People know the issues and they want change. They are heartened by Nick Xenophon’s support.
Her team also provided snapshots of their insights from the past three weeks. Everyone is getting strong messages of support for a candidate who knows the detail of the issues. This is seen as a real choice from the major parties.
A quiz about Di’s campaign provided light moments (who knew her dad trained her in hurdles in the backyard at the Melbourne Olympics?). A good start for the young Di – she has been jumping hurdles ever since with great success.
A fun night. Supporters are now heading into the community again with energy and passion for the last two weeks.
