AFTER more than a decade representing the Lyne electorate, Federal Member Dr David Gillespie has announced he will retire from Parliament at the next federal election.

The National Party MP, who was first elected in 2013, cited a desire to spend more time with his wife Charlotte, and their family.

“For over eleven years, my wife Charlotte and our family have supported me in this wonderful job, and I thank them for their love and support,” Dr Gillespie said in his announcement.

Dr Gillespie, a gastroenterologist before entering politics, had a distinguished career in medicine, including serving as Director of Physician Training at Port Macquarie Base Hospital.

His medical expertise proved valuable in Parliament, where he spent three years in the government ministry, including as Minister for Regional Health.

Dr Gillespie’s political career began with a loss in the 2010 federal election, but he was successful in 2013, reclaiming the historically safe Nationals seat from retiring Independent Rob Oakeshott.

Dr Gillespie went on to secure re-election in 2016, 2019, and 2022, despite several boundary changes to the electorate.

Each time, he maintained a comfortable margin, solidifying the Nationals’ hold on the seat.

During his tenure, Dr Gillespie championed numerous projects across the Lyne electorate, advocating for essential infrastructure and securing federal funding for local council initiatives.

His leadership helped drive regional investment, earning him praise from Nationals Leader David Littleproud, who said Dr Gillespie will leave a “significant legacy”.

He highlighted Dr Gillespie’s “important role” in shaping the party’s approach to regional health and infrastructure.

Reflecting on his retirement, Dr Gillespie expressed concerns for the future, stating, “Australia is at a crossroads, and there is a need for more people in Parliament with real-life experience.”

He committed to working diligently until the next election and collaborating with the next Nationals candidate to ensure the region continues to receive strong representation and remains a focal point for regional development.

The National Party has already commenced the preselection process for the Lyne seat, with nominations set to close in three weeks.

The preselection meeting is scheduled for 7 December, where party members will choose their candidate to contest the seat in the next federal election, expected by May 2025.

Lyne voters will look to the upcoming election to address key concerns, particularly the rising cost of living that has impacted many on the Mid North Coast and in the Hunter.

While the electorate has benefitted from federal funding under Dr Gillespie’s leadership, the next representative will face the challenge of continuing to deliver crucial infrastructure projects while addressing economic pressures on local households.

As Dr Gillespie prepares to step away from politics, he expressed gratitude to the people of Lyne, the National Party, and his staff.

His departure marks the end of an era for the seat and the start of a new chapter as the Nationals look to secure the seat once again and continue their legacy in the region.

By Luke HADFIELD