THE POLL BLUDGER
Victorian Legislative Assembly Election 2006

ALBERT PARK
Labor 12.5%

Held by Labor since 1950, Albert Park includes the bayside from the mouth of the Yarra to St Kilda, with St Kilda Road as the eastern boundary. John Thwaites (left) became the member at the 1992 election, having previously worked as a lawyer and adviser to the Attorney-General in the Cain government. He was appointed Shadow Health Minister the following year, a portfolio he maintained throughout Labor's period in opposition; the community services portfolio was added in 1996 and exchanged for planning early in 1999. Thwaites also became deputy leader in January 1997 and was thought by many to be a logical contender to replace the struggling John Brumby as leader. However, Thwaites agreed to give Steve Bracks a clear run when Brumby stepped aside in March 1999. Sandra McKay of The Age reported at the time that "Labor insiders said Mr Thwaites had left his run too late, remaining loyal to Mr Brumby during the months of leadership speculation, rather than shoring up his support"; his factional independence was also said to have told against him. Thwaites retained the health and planning portfolios in government, as well as the deputy leadership, but was reassigned as Environment, Water and Victorian Communities Minister after the 2002 election, which was seen as an attempt to raise the profile of environnmental issues. Liberal candidate Colin Smith (right) is described by the Liberal Party website as a "television producer and media manager" with a "diverse background in small business, the media industry, and the planning and environment sectors". Brendan Donohoe of the Herald-Sun reported that Smith was "drafted" from outside the electorate because no one from the local branches was interested in running.

Albert Park is not itself an electoral hot-spot, but it is home to St Kilda’s Palace nightclub and Palais theatre, ownership of which has reverted to the government following a mid-campaign ruling in the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal. The government hopes to use the land for a $100 million redevelopment of an area that also includes Luna Park and the Esplanade Hotel; however, the owners are considering an appeal. The Liberals have promised to re-start the tender process for the project if elected.

ASSESSMENT: Labor retain