Karen McKeown the new member for Penrith

By KeRRI e DAVI e S

Penrith was the only seat in our readership area to change hands. the seat has been won by the Labor candidate, Karen McKeown.

the seat had been held for 13 years by Liberal Stuart Ayres.

the vote in Penrith went Labor’s way with a swing of 1.9 percent (at the time of going to press). Ms McKeown is currently a Councillor on Penrith Council and has served previously as Mayor of our city.

“it is such a humbling feeling to be elected the Member for Penrith,” Ms McKeown said.

“i thank all those residents who voted for me and have put their trust in me. i will work tirelessly for every one.

i’m also indebted to the army of volunteers who have made this all possible.

“now the hard work begins!” having served on Penrith Council since 2004, including two terms as Mayor, Karen said she will never forget what is important to our community.

Ms McKeown said she is a proud Penrith local. With her husband Brendan, she has lived here for over three decades and raised their four children locally.

As part of the Minns Labor team, Karen said she will deliver improved staffing levels at Nepean Hospital and creating local jobs by building our trains, trams and ferries here in nSW.

Mr Ayres first won the seat in a by election back in 2010. During the 13 years as Member for Penrith, he also held numerous Ministerial positions and was for a period the Deputy Leader of the Liberal Party.

“Penrith, it’s been an amazing privilege to serve you,” Mr Ayres said.

“i congratulate Karen McKeown on her success in the election and becoming what i think is the best job in the world, the Member for Penrith.

“Can i say a big thank you to everyone in this community for your support over the last 13 years.

“it’s been an amazing opportunity to represent a community that i’m passionate about and absolutely love to my core.

“it has been a fantastic ride and i’ve loved every single day.”