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Candidates Face the Community in Tamworth Ahead of Federal Election
05
May 2025
Candidates Face the Community in Tamworth Ahead of Federal Election

As voters across the New England region headed to the polls this week, many did so equipped with firsthand insight thanks to the Meet the Candidates forum hosted by Tamworth Business Chamber and 88.9FM on Wednesday, 23 April.

As voters across the New England region headed to the polls this week, many did so equipped with firsthand insight thanks to the Meet the Candidates forum hosted by Tamworth Business Chamber and 88.9FM on Wednesday, 23 April.

Held at Tamworth Town Hall, the event brought together six of the seven candidates contesting the seat of New England for an open and unscripted discussion. With a live audience in the room and a livestream broadcast across the electorate, the forum offered a valuable platform for voters to hear directly from those seeking their support.

Participating candidates included:

  • Barnaby Joyce – The Nationals
  • Wendy Wales – The Greens
  • Natasha Ledger – Independent
  • Laura Hughes – Australian Labor Party
  • Todd Juchau – Trumpet of Patriots
  • Brent Larkham – Pauline Hanson’s One Nation

Holly Masters, representing the Family First Party, was unable to attend.

Moderated by Jim Booth and Matt “MacCa” McCarthy of 88.9FM, the evening gave each candidate the opportunity to outline their policies, respond to key questions, and address issues raised by the local community. Discussion focused on topics such as the cost of living, small business challenges, infrastructure, and regional workforce needs.

This was the first time the Tamworth candidate forum was livestreamed across the New England region, making it more accessible than ever before to those unable to attend in person.

The Tamworth Business Chamber thanks 88.9FM for facilitating the event, the candidates for their participation, and the community for its strong engagement.

A full replay of the forum is available here.