“I am pleased and delighted that Michael has put his hand up to continue his service for his community in public office”:NSW Opposition Leader Chris Minns.Credit:Dominic Lorrimer
Dr Holland,who has worked in the region for almost 20 years,would need to become the first Labor candidate to win the NSW seat since its reintroduction in 1988. It is currently held on a 6.9 per cent margin.
Dignams Creek local Dr Fiona Kotvojs,who has twice run unsuccessfully for the federal seat of Eden-Monaro,has been endorsed by the Liberal Party to replace Mr Constance as he attempts a move to Canberra in the federal seat of Gilmore.
Dr Holland said the South Coast electorate needed better healthcare infrastructure due to its ageing population.
“It’s not a small decision to make after 40 years in medicine,but health is such a big issue,not just on the South Coast,but right across NSW.”
The 64-year-old said he had been driven to run for state politics after watching local frontline staff work under increasing pressure over the past decade.
“I have seen local frontline workers give their all under ever-increasing demands and pressures,but it has been frustrating and demoralising witnessing this government not share that dedication and that commitment,” he said.
Mr Minns said Dr Holland had a longstanding connection with families in the region,and the respect of local healthcare workers.