MP eyes challengers

Alex de Vos
Labor Member for South Barwon Michael Crutchfield has predicted Liberal party infighting as candidates battle for preselection to take him on at the next state election.
Last week the Independent revealed Geelong councillor Andrew Katos had announced he would run for Liberal preselection in the state Labor seat of South Barwon.
The prominent Geelong business owner said he was passionate about the community and wanted to “give something back” after about 18 months on council.
Former Surf Coast Shire councillor Ron Humphrey has also announced he will throw his hat in the ring.
Mr Humphrey, who failed to win a second term on Surf Coast’s council at November’s elections, said he had decided to run for preselection because he “gives a damn about the electorate”.
Mr Crutchfield said he was “interested” in the Liberals’ preselection nominations for South Barwon.
However, he refused to comment on the nominees, vowing instead to stay focused on his work within the electorate.
“I’m not going to be distracted from my work on the preselection fights in the Liberal party.”
Cr Katos would cost ratepayers about $50,000 for a by-election if he won preselection and the subsequent state election.
City of Greater Geelong ran a $40,000 by-election after Michael Crutchfield was elected to Government in 2002.