Liberal candidate Laurence Antcliff vows to stop offshore wind farms Port POPUP - DAupdate Port Stephens Port Stephens News by News Of The Area - Modern Media - February 21, 2025 Liberal candidate for Paterson Laurence Antcliff with Troy Radford, President of Newcastle Port Stephens Game Fish Club. Photo: supplied. ADDRESSING more than 300 people gathered at the launch event for the Garmin Billfish Shootout, Liberal candidate for the Federal seat of Paterson, Laurence Antcliff, was well aware that beneath the general air of excitement for the fishing tournament there was an undercurrent of concern. “I’m not going to sugarcoat it,” he said, “I’m the only one who can stop this project from happening.” Advertise with News of The Area today. It’s worth it for your business. Message us. Phone us – (02) 4981 8882. Email us – media@newsofthearea.com.au The project is the proposed offshore wind farm that is currently being tested for feasibility. The issue has come to dominate conversations among residents of Port Stephens. The crowded room of avid fishing and boating enthusiasts cheered when Mr Antcliff voiced his own opposition to the project. “I love Port Stephens. I grew up in Anna Bay. I went to St Michael’s. I know the Bay. “The fundamental issue here is that our community in Port Stephens feels like it was ignored… because they absolutely were ignored.” Many local residents fear the project will have negative consequences on fishing and boating activities and the income generated from tourists to the region. He said a Coalition government led by Peter Dutton would rescind the project. He also raised other issues of concern. “There are apprentices in the construction industry who are pouring beers at night or stacking shelves at supermarkets in addition to their full-time jobs and studies, just to make ends meet. “There are Mums and Dads who are working full-time and are also stacking shelves at supermarkets, just so their kids don’t miss out on sports. “That’s not OK.” Mr Antcliff also acknowledged rising concerns about domestic violence. “We absolutely need more support services in Port Stephens so that people can be safe. “We also need more health care services.” By Lindsay HALL
