Jerry Nockles has been selected as the Liberal candidate for Eden-Monaro, following the federal leadership's decision to scrap NSW preselections.
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The Liberal Party's federal executive announced the Pharmacy Guild of Australia executive as their pick on Saturday, alongside candidates in other key seats including Hughes and Parramatta.
Ex-Navy, Dr Nockles served in the defence force for 24 years, before working for World Vision Australia and the United Nations Children's Fund of Australia.
According to a Liberal party statement, Dr Nockles has three children with his wife Patience and has been an active community member through his participation as a Menslink mentor and the Rotary Club.
Dr Nockles will challenge Labor's Kristy McBain in the ultra-marginal electorate surrounding the ACT, after his only rival pulled out, following a court ruling a committee led by Prime Minister Scott Morrison could choose candidates.
The Prime Minister, NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet and Liberals president Christine McDiven endorsed candidates in nine seats on Saturday, preventing local branch members having their pick for the upcoming federal election.
Dr Nockles already has experience at federal political level, having served former Member for Eden-Monaro Peter Hendy, and Senator Jim Molan.
"This is the most critical election in a generation, and our electorate will be at the heart of this election," said Dr Nockles.
"We need someone who will be a strong and capable representative in the Morrison government, and could ensure that our local businesses get the support they need to recover and grow."
Meanwhile the Greens announced Vivian Harris as their House of Representatives candidate for the seat with Darren Garnon standing for the United Australia Party.