The Final Say Candidates Forum
Final Say Candidates Forum a Resounding Success
The Final Say Candidates Forum was hailed as a resounding success by Riverina constituents ahead of the 2025 Federal Election.
More than 80 voters attended the event in person at the CSU Riverina Playhouse, with thousands accessing via live stream to hear final pitches from local candidates. The forum offered a valuable opportunity for the community to engage directly with those vying to represent them in Parliament.
Hosted by Committee 4 Wagga, the event was co-chaired by Samantha Beresford and Richard Pottie, who shared Master of Ceremonies duties. The forum was proudly supported by Charles Sturt University.
Celebrated SBS producer and presenter Chris Roe facilitated the discussion with professionalism and poise, earning widespread praise from both voters and candidates for his thoughtful moderation.
Candidates were challenged on a range of pressing local and national issues, including Wagga’s airport and traffic infrastructure, the rising cost of living, and support for small businesses.
Candidates taking part in The Final Say forum included (from left) Richard Foley (Australian Citizens Party), Barbara Baikie (Independent), James Gooden (Independent), Mark Jeffreson (Labor), Grant Hardwick (Independent) and Jenny Rolfe (Independent).