Richard Torbay has been an energetic and successful Independent representative for the state seat of Northern Tablelands. Now he entertains the idea of federal representation for the seat of New England on behalf of the National Party.
He appears to be testing the idea of a political chameleon to the limit here. In the State Parliament Richard Torbay was Speaker, appointed by the good offices of the governing Labor Party. He appears to have done an effective job. The pressures of the hung parliament means that the incumbent member for New England, Tony Windsor, may come under electoral pressure at the next federal election. Richard Torbay duly announces that the age of Independents is over and signs up to allegiance with the Nationals.
Politics is not just about brands and positioning. Parties represent broad coalitions of policy interest. The Independents have sought a more freelance position in relation to this. However, to skip from Independent to National Party status as Richard Torbay seeks to do speaks of a cynical manipulation, changing course at the slightest sign of a favourable wind.
Greg Smith,
Armidale
