Before I get into the need to support our furry friends and their protectors in the RSPCA, I am getting increasingly concerned at many in the local media only seeking comments from one lot of independents.

My Belco Party mate Alan Tutt and I were concerned to hear on the hustings from a constituent who works in our justice system that last week there were seven sudden deaths of otherwise healthy people in the ACT.

Belco Party co-convenor Bill Stefaniak says the thought of Shane Rattenbury becoming Chief Minister is scary.

The ACT has not had (until recently, perhaps) any real allegations of political wrongdoing and even corruption, which have been not infrequent occurrences in other jurisdictions.

I was delighted to see Independents for Canberra finally realise you actually need policies to take to the electorate.

The local Greens seem to exude hypocrisy when it comes to local elections.

Disturbing concerns surrounding the ACT Greens/Labor government’s takeover of the well-run Calvary Hospital have emerged over discussions I’ve had with constituents over the weekend. In my view, these need to be fully investigated.

My condolences to the Snow family on the death of Canberra legend Terry Snow.

Just when some of you breathed a sigh of relief, I’m back!

On a local note, this will be my last column for at least three months, as I have succumbed to my party’s requests that I stand again for the October local elections.

Sectarianism in Australia is always a concern, especially as we are probably the most successful multicultural country in the world.

Congratulations to UK Labour PM Sir Keir Starmer on a historic and, at first glance, huge win last Thursday.