The Gerogery Hotel, a staple of the Riverina region in southern New South Wales, typically remains closed on Monday nights. However, this week saw an exception as the venue opened its doors to host a significant political gathering. Located along a bustling highway north of Albury, the hotel is renowned for its 1-kilogram steak challenges. Yet, on this occasion, it was One Nation that served up a feast of political discourse.
Approximately 300 attendees filled the pub to hear One Nation’s pitch ahead of the Farrer by-election, as the party seeks to solidify its candidate. Publican Norman Carl emphasized the hotel’s political neutrality, stating it would welcome any party wishing to engage the community in dialogue. The evening’s discussions were dominated by concerns over water management, the cost of living, and gun laws, issues that weigh heavily on the minds of local residents.
“We probably haven’t had real strong [political] debate for a couple of years, but it would be good to get back to it,” Mr. Carl remarked, reflecting the community’s appetite for robust political discourse.
Votes for the Taking
The Farrer electorate, traditionally a stronghold for the conservative Coalition, is witnessing a shift. Many attendees at the Gerogery Hotel expressed willingness to reconsider their political loyalties. Some traveled hundreds of kilometers to hear One Nation’s message, indicating their votes were up for grabs.
Louise Burge, a former independent candidate from Deniliquin and a self-described Coalition voter, is contemplating a switch to One Nation. “Farrer is at a critical point,” she stated. “We either keep going as the way we are, or we have a change of direction and that is what is required.” Burge criticized past governments for neglecting crucial issues affecting both Farrer and the nation.
Similarly, Chris Stillard, a Coalition supporter from Barooga, voiced his disillusionment with major parties, particularly over the Murray-Darling Basin water policies. “I think people have had enough,” he said, acknowledging the growing appeal of One Nation.
Leaving the Left
Interestingly, the gathering also attracted traditional left-leaning voters. David Gilcrist, a Gerogery local and lifelong Labor supporter, expressed his disenchantment with the party. “I am a working man, a truck driver, and they were the only thing for me,” he explained. “But about 15 years ago they started telling people what they need to do and not looking after them.” Gilcrist credited Pauline Hanson’s honesty for swaying his vote.
He added, “We’d like to be heard in the country, we are never heard out here. Everything Labor and Liberal is city-centric.” Gilcrist’s sentiments resonate with many rural voters who feel overlooked by the major parties.
Ready to Mop Up
The upcoming 2026 Farrer by-election presents a crucial opportunity for One Nation to capitalize on its rising popularity. The party’s national polling indicates a surge, particularly among rural and regional voters, positioning it as a formidable contender against the Liberal and National parties combined.
One Nation senator Sean Bell, addressing the Gerogery crowd, received the loudest applause for his stance on abolishing the net zero policy. He expressed optimism about the party’s prospects, stating, “It is exciting because it’s time for change, and people want change.” Bell believes One Nation is well-positioned to attract voters disillusioned with legacy parties.
This development follows a broader trend of political realignment in Australia, where voters increasingly seek alternatives to traditional parties. As the by-election approaches, all eyes will be on Farrer to see if One Nation can indeed translate its growing support into electoral success.
