“I’m here to serve the people and not a political party,” Mr Attkins said at the launch of his campaign.

As economic development manager for the Manning Valley Business Chamber, a cattle farmer, and business owner of the Great Lakes Winery at Wootton, Steve has a strong background and a broad experience of getting things done in the region. 

He has been actively involved with the business chamber, creating regional jobs for the past 14 years, and says his role in delivering local projects has “shown me how crucial it is to have this experience. 

“As your local member, I will use this experience to deliver increased funding. 

“Thank you to all those who have volunteered to help with my campaign. I really appreciate the grass roots efforts from people across the Great Lakes and Manning who have asked me to stand. 

“So many have asked if I will be putting my hand up, and it has been great to have that interest and support. 

“People in the Manning and Great Lakes communities tell me how dissatisfied they are with the lack of funding over the years for things like health, roads and community projects. 

“So I believe it is time to change horses. It is all about operating effectively as a local member, and getting results for your electorate. 

“Like my friends and neighbours, I am very disappointed in the little that has been achieved over the last four years. 

“It’s essential to have an effective and engaged local member,’’ Mr Attkins said. 

He said his time on the Manning Hospital Health Community Advisory Board and with several tourism groups has shown that support from the state member is vital to the region’s success. 

Mr Attkins has appeared prominently in regional media, championing the Northern Gateway project, and in ongoing discussions to secure new manufacturing jobs for the region. 

“I do not feel we have been getting anywhere near the value we should from our state representation. The facts show that our electorate is doing poorly compared with Port Macquarie.

“I look forward to working with the member for Port Macquarie, Leslie Williams, who has managed to get five times the funding for her electorate. With the right plan in place, we can get that funding we deserve and more here in Forster, Taree and across our region.

“We have the same population as Port Macquarie, and we should be doing a lot better, given the attractive lifestyle and liveability we have in the Manning and Great Lakes. 

“I think that we have been neglected because the Nationals think this is a safe seat. 

“I am very serious about getting our region back to growth with new jobs and a sustainable future for our next generation. 

“I know from first-hand experience that we have had so many transport, health, infrastructure and other projects which have withered on the vine. I know our regional economy like I know my grapes – it takes the right mix of conditions and hard work to get them going and keep them growing. 

“As your local member, I will actively serve the Great Lakes and the Manning Valley communities. Your voices will be heard and your calls will be answered. 

“We will get back to where we should be, and move forward together with confidence and a plan that works.” 

Mr Attkins will stand as an independent in the Saturday, March 28 State elections.