Libs endorse Gencher

The Liberal Party has already endorsed StandWithUs Australia CEO and Mona Vale resident Michael Gencher as its new candidate for Pittwater for the March 2027 NSW election – a move he said shows the party’s seriousness about reclaiming the seat it lost to Teal Independent Jacqui Scruby in a 2024 by-election.

A former Northern Beaches councillor, and still-serving veteran volunteer surf lifesaver, Gencher said it’s a huge honour to have been endorsed.

“This was a blue-ribbon Liberal seat … so I really see this as an opportunity of inviting people back to the Liberal vote,” he said.

“Also, Kellie Sloane is an impressive leader of the party, and I think a big part of what is going to help sway disaffected voters.”

He said he is running because Pittwater needs “representation resulting in real action” on the biggest issues in the electorate “where locals have been let down”.

He cited those as poor transport infrastructure, the Northern Beaches Hospital “disaster, without functioning private services”, rising living costs, and a shortage of local schools, police, affordable housing, and ambulances.

“As crossbenchers, the Teals have been ineffective for this area, both federally and state,” he said.

“What is needed is delivery – with schedules and with budgets – not just advocacy.”

Gencher said issues affecting the Jewish community have not acted on with the seriousness, urgency, or clarity they require.

He expressed deep concern “that the current Pittwater MP chose to sign a letter urging the NSW Premier to allow the Sydney Harbour Bridge anti-Israel march [last August] to proceed”.

Gencher said “public leaders also have a responsibility to consider the consequences of the causes they legitimise, the language they excuse, and the fear that can be created for Jewish Australians”.

He said he hoped more Jewish Australians consider entering public life.

“If I can be an example to a young Jewish person to have a go, then even better,” he said.