`Safe' seats tumble north and south of the river

as posted on PerthNow


THE Labor Party suffered so many defeats in city marginal seats that it was all but tipped out of office.

The Liberal Party wreaked havoc on the Government in the northern suburbs. A 6 per cent swing against Labor saw the Liberals capture Wanneroo, Ocean Reef and Kingsley.

But Colin Barnett's biggest scalps -- which Labor did not see coming -- were stunning wins in Morley and Mt Lawley.

Winning Liberal candidate in Mt Lawley, Michael Sutherland, was last night struggling to come to terms with his surprise victory.

``We had an idea we would be in with a big chance,'' he said. ``Mr Carpenter tried to buy the seat of Mt Lawley and portray her (Karen Brown) as a wonder woman.

``It's amazing I've won. but it just hasn't sunk in yet.''

The writing was on the wall early for the Government as it quickly became obvious it had lost Ocean Reef and Kingsley.

There was ``aggression'' towards the Government at booths in marginal seats.

The Liberal Party also unseated Labor MP Paul Andrews to seize the seat of Southern River.

Liberal candidate Peter Abetz said he had a gut feeling the minute polls closed that he would win.

``We've mounted a pretty formidable campaign at such short notice,'' he said.

Mr Andrews, who had held the seat since 2001, said it was a horrible feeling to lose.

``It feels like having your appendix taken out without any anaesthetic,'' he said. ``I have a beautiful wife and family who I have totally ignored for the best part of 16 years so I think I better start giving them a bit of attention.''

Mr Andrews said if Labor lost the election, Mr Carpenter would have to resign.

``I think he would have to resign, he would be seriously considering it, if not tonight, soon after,'' he said.

In the newly created seat of Jandakot, Liberal candidate Joe Francis was overcome with emotion and fatigue as supporters celebrated at his home in Atwell.

``I'm absolutely worn out,'' he said. ``Im too tired to be happy because I haven't slept.''
Mr Francis hailed Mr Barnett a saviour.

``Colin Barnett is one seat away from the greatest comeback in political history,'' he said. ``The result shows that you can't take your electorate for granted.''

Liberal MP Tony Simpson claimed victory in Darling Range.

Mr Simpson said the result was due to a backlash against Mr Carpenter and the State Government's performance.

``There are three things: Mr Carpenter's arrogance in calling the early election, (the Government) not fixing problems despite the booming economy and the surplus and their negative campaign,'' he said.

One of the few positives for the Government was the faint hope it would hold on to the seat of Riverton.

as posted on PerthNow