NSW Labor is today announcing that Branxton local Peree Watson will run as the NSW Labor candidate for Upper Hunter in the March 2023 NSW State Election.
Peree has lived in the Upper Hunter her entire life, having raised her three children here and now living with her husband Ian in Branxton.
Peree wants to ensure the many diverse communities of the Upper Hunter receive their fair share of government resources and support. She believes the community deserves better healthcare, quality education and secure employment.
As the daughter of the late former President of the United Mineworkers Union, Mick Watson, Peree knows the importance of hard work and collaboration to deliver for the community.
Career and community involvement:
Peree has worked across the accounting, hospitality, management, and journalism fields before moving into the not-for-profit industry. She has also volunteered at her local playgroup, for her kid’s schools and football committees.
For the last 15 years, Peree has worked as a fundraiser for charities supporting some of the most vulnerable in our community, including the Hunter Medical Research Institute, the Leukaemia Foundation, Hunter Children’s Research Foundation, the Mark Hughes Foundation and the domestic violence charity Got Your Back Sista.
Comment from Chris Minns, NSW Labor Leader:
I’m excited to announce Peree Watson will be the Labor candidate for Upper Hunter at the next election.
“Peree is a passionate advocate and a deeply ingrained member of the community and I’m confident she will be a strong voice for the Upper Hunter in the NSW Parliament if she has the privilege of being elected.
“Labor faces an uphill battle in this electorate, but I believe Peree is up for the fight, and will turn up every single day for her community.”
Comment from Yasmin Catley, NSW Shadow Minister for the Hunter:
“Peree is just the person the Upper Hunter needs in Macquarie Street. She is a fighter and will deliver real change for this community if given the opportunity.
“Peree has a long history in this community, the Upper Hunter and broader Hunter Community. She is a well-respected local who and understands the concerns and needs of its residents.
“I have no doubt she will be a passionate advocate for Upper Hunter and will be a fantastic addition to our parliamentary team if she has the privilege of being elected.”
Comment from Peree Watson:
I love my community, and it has been a privilege to serve it for over a decade in various capacities. I’m now asking for the opportunity to serve this community in our parliament because I believe we deserve better, and only a Minns Labor Government can deliver that.
“I’ve experienced the challenges with access to healthcare, with finding teachers to teach our kids in the local schools and seen the challenges with housing affordability, and I want to work with the community, local groups and across Government to find solutions.
“I know this will be a tough election, but the people of this electorate deserve a choice, a voice and a government that won’t take them for granted.”