The campaign was officially launched by retiring Nationals member Damian Drum, who outlined the key characteristics of a successful member of parliament.
“Sam Birrell,” Mr Drum said, “is the candidate who has the experience, intelligence, track record and empathy to deliver great things for this electorate.”
Mr Birrell went on to thank the party for the trust placed in him, before describing a vision for a positive future.
“We will have frequent and fast train services to Melbourne, farms booming through innovation and a burgeoning renewable sector,” Mr Birrell said.
“People who live in regions in other western democracies would do anything to have a party focused on regions — we have it. Let’s embrace it, and continue to use it as a platform for our prosperity.”
Mr Birrell then relieved the band for a few songs, belting out spirited solo versions of Don't look back in anger by Oasis and Who’s gonna ride your wild horses by U2.
Hannah Mark, a young campaign volunteer, said there was a real spark to the launch.
“I don’t think people expected Sam to pick up the guitar, definitely not what you would expect at a political campaign launch,” Ms Mark said.
“There is a real energy, and a bit of rock star to him.”
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