Federal election: Labor's Karen Wheatland the Durack ‘underdog', looking to step up for region she grew up in
The Geraldton Guardian asked the Liberal and Labor candidates questions on various topics ahead of Saturday's Federal election.
Labor's Karen Wheatland concedes she's the underdog, but says her focus is on showing up and being there.
Q. What is your coffee order?
Piccolo.
Q. What is your favourite cafe in Geraldton?
Quiet Life.
Q. What was last thing you binge-watched?
Designated Survivor.
Q. How many kilometres have you covered during this campaign?
Easily upwards of 40,000km — I've travelled right across Durack: from the Central Wheatbelt to the Kimberley, through the Pilbara, the Gascoyne, and the Mid West. It's been a huge undertaking — but worth every kilometre.
Q. What is the funniest thing that's happening to you campaigning this time?
I think one of the most real times was meeting locals/supporters at the Gassy in Carnarvon at the same time as the Old Bastards Club was on. Started yarning with them and I think they didn't believe me when I said I used to fish and work on boats. Wasn't until I name-dropped the names of a couple of old salties I use to work with did they realise I was speaking the truth! Loved meeting them.
Q. What do you think of your party leader and his performance during this campaign?
I think Albo's shown what real leadership looks like — steady, honest and focused on people, not politics. He doesn't shout the loudest but he listens, and he leads with empathy. He knows what it's like to do it tough. That kind of lived experience shapes the way he leads — and I respect that deeply.
Q. Will you move to Geraldton if you win?
Gero is always home to me and since Dad has passed, I have been looking at real estate in the area. It's expensive but when I find the right place, I will invest in something.
Q. Can you draw much from the State election result, in particular the anti-Labor swing in the regions?
For me, the key has been — and still is — showing up, listening and getting around. That's how you build trust. I'm focused on connecting with as many people as I can right up until the last vote is cast.
Q. What are the biggest issues affecting Durack and in particular Geraldton and the Mid West?
Cost of living is the largest issue by far, followed by housing.
Q. Would you agree neither party has promised much exclusively for the Durack electorate this election campaign?
A re-elected Albanese Labor government will open an Urgent Care Clinic in Geraldton. The Geraldton Urgent Care Clinic will be the second one in Durack with one already operating in Broome. The Midwest Multicultural Association will get $50,000 for their Festival of Lights Celebration if the Albanese Labor Government gets in.
Q. How would you rate your chances and your party's chances on Saturday?
I think Federal Labor is going well. Albo is focused and will continue to work hard, but it's not time to contemplate the result. There is still a lot of work to do and it's not over until the polls close. My chances? I am the underdog here, but never say never!
Q. One word to best describe your main competition?
Honestly, I've been so focused on showing up for the people of Durack, I haven't seen them around.
Q. What's the best piece of advice you've ever received?
That's a tough question and it makes me emotional but it's got to be another one from the old man. Don't compromise yourself. Draw a line in the sand and step over it for no one. Like both of my parents had to, I have rebuilt my life from struggle. This has helped me throughout my life.
Q. How much has Donald Trump and US politics affected this Federal election campaign?
Here in Durack, most people are focused on getting by. It's the cost of living, paying the bills, keeping food on the table — that's what's front of mind. That said, trade does matter. The Albanese Government's been getting on with it — like the work behind the scenes that saw the rock lobster ban to China lifted last year. That trade's back up and running, and our commercial fishers are finally seeing better prices again.
Q. How is your party best placed to tackle the cost-of-living crisis?
We're best placed because we're already doing the work. The Albanese Labor Government has delivered real cost-of-living relief — cheaper childcare, expanded bulk billing under Medicare — and there's more in the works, with additional tax cuts, and energy bill relief for households and small businesses.
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