Another of our local MPs is bringing their political career to a close.
In a statement released on Thursday evening, August 27th, Maree Edwards confirmed she will not be re-contesting the electorate of Bendigo West.
“For some time, I have been contemplating a future away from the public eye and away from politics. A future which enables me to spend more time with friends and family,” Ms Edwards said.
“It has been a challenging past year following the death of my husband Steve.
“I have not taken this decision lightly and it has weighed on my mind for many months.
“For the sake of my physical and mental health the time has come to step back.”
Her decision comes despite indicating to Gold Central Victoria just last month that she intended to continue in the role.
Asked whether she would work as MP for another four years, Ms Edwards said the following:
“I have, and always look towards the future to see what my communities need, and how can I help them to deliver not just infrastructure, but good services across my region.
“There’s always more to do and I have a lot more to do, so yes – I believe I can.”
Ms Edwards was first elected as Bendigo West’s representative at the 2010 state election, succeeding fellow Labor MP Bob Cameron, and currently fulfils the role of Speaker in Victorian parliament’s legislative assembly.
At the last poll in 2022, she collected 46 percent of the first-preference votes, retaining her seat with a two-party preferred margin of 14.35 percent against Liberal candidate Ken Price.
Photo: Lisa Chesters MP/Facebook
In her statement, she listed the redeveloped Bendigo hospital, Bendigo TAFE facilities, new Bendigo Law Courts, GovHub and Tech School as some of her achievements during her time in office.
Premier Ben Carroll released a statement of his own yesterday, thanking Ms Edwards for her service.
“For almost 16 years, Maree has served Bendigo West, Victoria, and our Parliament with integrity, humility and care,” he said.
“The truest measure of any Speaker is the respect they earn across the whole chamber, particularly from those whose politics they do not share. Maree has more than earned that respect.
“She listens, considers every matter carefully, and is patient, fair and firm when required.”
Also offering praise is her Bendigo East counterpart and former state leader Jacinta Allan – who will also be retiring at the upcoming election.
“I was proud to serve alongside Maree as together we represented the great City of Bendigo and smaller communities in Central Victoria,” Ms Allan said.
“I was blessed to have Maree as a friend with whom I could share the joys and challenges of life as a Member of Parliament and many laughs along the way.”
Their federal colleague Lisa Chesters added on Facebook: “Steadfast and gutsy are the two words that come to mind when I think of Maree Edwards MP. An absolute champion for our community, thank you Maree for all you’ve done as the Member for Bendigo West.”
Ms Edwards will continue to serve as local MP and Speaker until parliament rises prior to November’s poll.
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