Hinchinbrook MP, Andrew Cripps, has welcomed the announcement that Noeline Ikin will be the LNP candidate for Kennedy at the next federal election.

Mr Cripps said Ms Ikin was an excellent candidate that had achieved an impressive result in the vast Kennedy electorate at the last poll in 2013.

“As a mum, a small business person, a former local councillor and former CEO of a not-for-profit organisation, Noeline is a grass-roots candidate that understands the issues on the ground in local communities” said Mr Cripps.

“Noeline campaigned hard in 2013 and the result was very impressive – she outpolled Bob Katter by 11 per cent on primary votes and only lost when Labor preferences pushed the sitting member over the line” he said.

“The fact is that Kennedy is now a marginal seat and Noeline is a very good candidate that would make an excellent and effective federal MP for the Kennedy electorate who would ensure our voice was heard in Canberra”.

“Noeline is well respected and would be a great advocate for the Kennedy electorate and North Queensland and I would welcome the opportunity to work with her to raise awareness about issues that impact on our region”.

“I know Noeline has a positive agenda based on creating new economic opportunities for business and industry and creating new jobs and I know Noeline is determined to campaign on a positive agenda for the future”.

Mr Cripps said the grass-roots membership of the LNP in the Kennedy electorate was proud and enthusiastic about Ms Ikin’s endorsement as their candidate.