Ms Ley appears to be one of the only candidates spending time in Leeton ahead of the July 2 vote. 

She was in town last week to meet with Leeton Shire Council, as well as the Leeton Men’s Shed where she announced grant funding for the group’s solar project. 

Following a boundary change, Leeton shire is now included in the Farrer electorate and residents will be required to vote in this seat for the first time next month. 

Ms Ley has been the member for Farrer for more than 20 years and is the current Minister for Health, Aged Care and Sport. 

“I’ve been enjoying getting out and about in the electorate ahead of the election,” Ms Ley said. 

“People have been talking about the issues, which can be different in the different towns. 

“It’s a diverse electorate, but it’s good to be able to get out and meet the people living in these places such as Leeton.”

When asked about the current lack of maternity services at the Leeton District Hospital, Ms Ley said she was aware of the situation.

“I’m certainly aware of the issue,” she said. “It is a state (decision). What I will say is regional hospitals are crucial to places like Leeton, so it’s important to have key services (in place).”

Ms Ley will be returning to town next Friday to attend a breakfast organised by the Leeton Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Chamber president Graham Heffer has described Ms Ley’s attendance as “a coup” heading into the final week of the election campaign. 

Pre-poll voting won’t be available in Leeton this year, but residents can head to Narrandera to get their vote in early.

2016 Farrer candidates