Both candidates are calling on voters to look at their records with Dr Kelly saying he is proud of the record he established as previous member, working with the community and businesses “to deliver substantial outcomes for our region”, one of which was his early involvement in the South East Regional Hospital. 

Dr Hendy said he was very proud to be delivering a healthier community and pointed to both the South East Regional Hospital and also the carers accommodation as key parts of his work.

Both candidates see business and tourism as important issues for the Bega Valley particularly with the promised development of the Port of Eden.

Dr Kelly said: “If re-elected I intend to pursue a strategic economic plan for Eden-Monaro that seeks to restore renewable energy investment, turbocharge our tourism industry, build broader business investment on the back of a proper roll out of the NBN, and develop a marketing strategy for our regional produce to take advantage of the opening up of Eden Port and Canberra International Airport to commercial freight operations.”

Dr Hendy said: “I am very proud to be investing $20 million in the NSW South Coast jobs and investment package to create local jobs and growth and diversify the regional economy, developing local tourism and gateways to the South Coast by redeveloping the Merimbula and Moruya Airports and delivering the Port of Eden expansion, and to be supporting Bega Cheese to build a new plant in North Bega, to transition to high value exports and support local jobs.”

The Turnbull Liberal team could deliver political stability and had a strong economic plan for jobs and families across the region, Dr Hendy said.

Dr Kelly said the electorate needed a member to reach out to the community and stay in touch with its needs.

“Only someone who has a deep love for this region and community will be motivated enough to work and fight for us,” Dr Kelly said.