FEDERAL Nationals Deputy Leader and Minister for Agriculture, Barnaby Joyce threw his weight behind the state campaign of the Nationals' candidate for Ripon, Scott Turner, during a visit to Ararat last Wednesday.
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Mr Joyce visited the Ripon electorate at Mr Turner's invitation and spent time at local employers, Ararat Meat Exports and Gason discussing issues including export markets, the China free trade agreement and workforce attraction and retention.
"Barnaby Joyce is known for his passionate backing of country people and country issues," Mr Turner said.
"While I am my own man, it is Barnaby's type of advocacy for rural people that I would like to match if I am elected to represent the people of Ripon. Barnaby has been a champion of rural people and I would like to champion the people of Ripon.
"It was great to have him in the region and shows how serious the Nationals are about winning this seat and giving it strong representation."
Mr Joyce said he enjoyed the visit.
"It was great to see some of the growing agricultural businesses the region is home to and discuss issues affecting jobs and business in the region," he said.
"Scott Turner is an energetic bloke who kept me on my toes throughout the day showcasing to me the region he is so proud to call home.
"I was here because I want to support a good candidate for Ripon and one that comes from a regionally based party. The Nationals are that party. I have nothing against the city-based parties, they do a good job of representing their constituency, but that's Melbourne, and the more Nationals' members we have in the Parliament, the stronger the country voice is."
