NSW Nationals: Dr David Gillespie – Thank you Mel Pavey!

Thank you Melinda Pavey for your long and outstanding service to our community and state.

Federal Nationals Member for Lyne Dr David Gillespie has paid tribute to State Nationals Member for Oxley Melinda Pavey on her outstanding contribution to the community and the state of NSW.

Dr Gillespie made the comments following Mrs Pavey’s announcement that she would not be recontesting next year’s state election.

“Mel Pavey has dedicated 20 years serving our community, and in that time, has been a strong advocate for common sense,” Dr Gillespie said.

“She has served as a senior Minister in the State Government and was responsible for a number of important portfolios including Roads where she secured a commitment for the state to take back many regional roads that have become too difficult for country councils to maintain.”

Dr Gillespie said that Mrs Pavey’s experience in small business, journalism and in working for two former State Nationals Leaders Wal Murray and Ian Armstrong had prepared her for politics.

“Mel has always understood the community’s expectations of government are about delivery and she has always pushed back against bureaucratic red tape and fought for common sense solutions,” Dr Gillespie said.

“Mel has secured a great deal of funding for several projects across the Oxley electorate from road and school upgrades, new hospitals, fire and ambulance stations and community facilities.

“Mel has also been a stalwart of the National Party and was very active both as a party member and as an Upper House member in helping to win the seats we needed to return the State Coalition to government in 2011.

“Mel has made a very significant contribution to our state and our community. On behalf of Charlotte and I, I’d like to thank Mel and Warren for their dedication and service and wish them well for the future.