Mayor Michelle Dracoulis drops out of Labor MP race to focus on Derwent Valley

The mayor of the Derwent Valley has dropped out of the race to become a Labor Member of Parliament, just two weeks after being announced as a candidate.

Mayor Michelle Dracoulis told councillors at a meeting on Thursday night that she would be withdrawing as a candidate in the next state election to focus on the Derwent Valley.

“I choose here. I choose us,” Dracoulis said.

“On the 1st of December, a few short hours after I had been told, the Labor Party announced that I had been endorsed as a candidate for the next state election.”

“It is an honour to be chosen as a candidate and I know there is a lot I can offer in this space. It’s also [a] great opportunity for me as a person.”

Despite saying she was “committed to the Derwent Valley” in various Facebook posts since day one, some locals argued that her focus may shift in the lead up to the election.

“In the days since the announcement, I have had many conversations, received many messages and read the comments on our local community boards.”

“I agree with the comments that the Derwent Valley deserves a mayor that will offer stability and that we are going through a period of growth and change that requires full dedication from those that lead it.”

“I’ve had a lot to think about and I have come to a conclusion. I choose here. I choose us.”

“I have resigned as a candidate for the state seat of Lyons. I am the Mayor of the Derwent Valley.”

Dracoulis is understood to have officially sent her resignation to the Labor Party at the end of the council meeting.

Labor Leader Rebecca White has acknowledged Dracoulis’ decision, wished her well and said she will continue to work with her to deliver the best outcomes for Derwent Valley locals.

Current list of Labor candidates for the next Tasmanian state election