By David Kavanagh | posted on January 23, 2020
THE WA Liberal Party’s sole nominee for pre-selection for the Seat of Albany has said it would be a “challenge” to unseat Labor, but is more than ready to give it a go.
Albany City Motors financial director and prominent sport volunteer Scott Leary was the only candidate to submit his nomination to the party before deadline last Friday.
If endorsed, the 53-year-old could see himself square off against Labor Party heavyweight Peter Watson, who has held the seat for nearly two decades but is yet to decide whether he will re-contest at the 2021 state election.
“It won’t be an easy path at all given that Labor has been an incumbent for so long,” Mr Leary said.
“Peter Watson is a great representative and has done an okay job for here but I think I can bring a bit more emphasis, a bit more direction to Albany.
“I’ve been civic-minded probably all of my working life so I think it’s now time to put something back into the community.”
Mr Leary moved to Albany in 1992 and has worked at the dealership for more than 20 years.
He said his experience in financial management, dealing with people and familiarity with long working weeks made him a worthwhile political candidate.
“The numbers are not scary to me … and I’ve got a great sense for budgeting and what needs to be happening,” he said.
“There are some great projects that the City of Albany has got and to be able to get funding to those and see those through to finishing is great.”
Mr Leary highlighted education and health as areas of interest but noted it was too early to announce policy or plans.
On Monday, he said he was yet to have official discussions with the WA Liberal Party or constituents.
The party’s State Council is expected to review his nomination in the coming weeks.
