Jacqui Bateman, a resident of Robe, has been elected as the vice president of the South Australian Liberal Party during the recent State Council annual general meeting held in Adelaide. Previously serving as the president of the Robe branch since 2023, Bateman is recognized for her contributions as an award-winning professional photographer and her role in initiating the Robe to Recovery veteran support program.
Leadership Transition and Upcoming Election
With Bateman’s new position, a vacancy has arisen for a State Council delegate for the MacKillop State Electorate Committee. A special meeting is scheduled for September 10 in Bordertown to elect a successor. This gathering will feature guest speaker Bek Rosser, the Liberal candidate for MacKillop, who will present her campaign strategies ahead of the elections in March.
In a memo shared with party members and obtained by The SE Voice, the leadership commended Rosser for her extensive experience in government, having served under both the Olsen and Howard Liberal Governments. The memo emphasized her commercial acumen and commitment to the community, stating, “Bek is determined to deliver long-term funding for regional roads and aged care services, while restoring strong, values-driven representation to MacKillop.”
Engagement with the Community
Recently, Rosser and newly pre-selected Mount Gambier candidate Lamorna Alexander attended an event in Adelaide to connect with other candidates and the Liberal Party state team. Following the annual general meeting of the State Council at the Convention Centre, Alexander expressed enthusiasm about the engagement, saying, “It was a great opportunity to connect, share ideas and work together on how we can deliver for South Australians.” She added her eagerness to bring these discussions back to Mount Gambier and continue advocating for local issues.
As the Liberal Party prepares for the upcoming election, the leadership changes and strategic planning reflect a commitment to addressing the needs of the community, particularly in the MacKillop region. The election of Jacqui Bateman as vice president marks a significant step in the party’s efforts to strengthen its local representation.
