Andrew Higgs.– Ed Merrison
DEFEATED candidate for Dobson Ward Andrew Higgs resigned as a member of the Victorian Liberal Party last week, but remained confident he would one day serve Knox residents.
Mr Higgs submitted his resignation on Friday – the day he was due to hear a verdict on his future within the party, which had been investigating claims of forgery, branch stacking and breaching fundraising rules.
The former Young Liberal said he chose to resign ahead of Friday night’s policy assembly meeting because he believed he would not be afforded a fair hearing.
In local politics, Mr Higgs was encouraged by voters’ support despite failing in his bid to oust Cr Karin Orpen in the recent Knox elections.
“I’m very grateful for the endorsement 44 per cent of voters extended towards me, showing both their confidence and trust in me being able to install a fresh face and fresh ideas in the foothills,” he said.
“It was a very close contest that went down to the very last distribution of preferences.
“On Saturday (26 November), I’m sure the incumbent passed a restless night, sweating at the brow.”
Mr Higgs did not see the result as a loss, but rather a victory for his team.
“Sunday (27 November) at the declaration was a very happy day for me,” he said.
“I was a member of a winning team of people that were dedicated, loyal and committed to the task of putting common sense back into council.”
Mr Higgs wished Cr David Cooper a happy mayoral term and thanked the Knox Reform Coalition for what he called “a privileged opportunity and one which enhanced my know-how and skill with community networks and electioneering”.
Mr Higgs, 23, also vowed to be back running in the next Knox elections in three years’ time.
“(Voters) certainly haven’t heard the last of me,” he said.
“The people of the foothills have spoken that they wish for a fresh voice, and at 26 years of age that’s the voice I’ll be able to provide.”
