James Gooden Meets with SFF Upper House MP to Advocate for the Riverina
Monday, 5th May 2025
Just one day after polls closed, Independent Candidate for Riverina James Gooden was back to doing what he does best — standing up for the region he calls home.
On Sunday, James met with The Hon. Mark Banasiak MLC, Member of the Legislative Council and representative of the Shooters, Fishers and Farmers Party, to discuss key issues affecting the Riverina and other regional communities.
Topics covered during the meeting included:
Drought preparedness and long-term support strategies
Water policy and the need to prioritise access for productive agriculture and communities
Phone and internet blackspots, which continue to hamper daily life and business across rural NSW
The urgent need for a stronger regional focus in policy and investment
HumeLink and the need for consultation, transparency, and respect for landholders
James stressed that while the election has ended, the work for the Riverina continues.
“We need all levels of government — and all parties — to take regional issues seriously. The major parties haven’t done that for too long,” James said. “I appreciate Mark’s willingness to listen and to raise these issues in Parliament.”
Mr Banasiak has confirmed he will be raising the matters discussed in the NSW Parliament during the upcoming sitting week.
James remains committed to advocating for the people of the Riverina and holding decision-makers to account — regardless of titles or election outcomes.
CONTACT: Cate Povey | 0402 118 958
