Drum closer to declaration as McGauchie concedes

Damian Drum has all but been declared the winner of the federal seat of Murray.

Mr Drum is firmly on track to be the next member of parliament for the seat— which covers towns such as Avenel and Nagambie — as the vote count nears completion.

Mr Drum attended his first Nationals party room meeting in Canberra last week and said he was honoured to have won the trust and support of the people of Murray.

‘‘We ran a strong campaign that focused on local people and local issues and the people of Murray resoundingly backed our positive approach,’’ Mr Drum said.

‘‘The Nationals’ strong commitment to Murray was reinforced by the many Nationals ministers who came to the electorate to make commitments during the campaign.

‘‘I am proud to be from the Goulburn Valley and I look forward to getting on with the job of working with our community to get things moving again.’’

While the Australian Electoral Commission is yet to officially declare the seat of Murray, Liberal candidate Duncan McGauchie has conceded.

‘‘I thank Duncan and all of the candidates who ran against me for their professional and friendly approaches to campaigning,’’ Mr Drum said.

Third term: Divisional returning officer Kellie Melville congratulates incumbent Rob Mitchell after he was declared the winner of McEwen. By Alison O’Connor