FLINDERS MP Zoe McKenzie, a Liberal, found herself embroiled in controversy last week over a photograph and comments she posted on social media congratulating the new Dunkley MP, Labor’s Jodie Beylea. Along with the photo were the words, “You have been a good friend to women across the Mornington Peninsula. Look forward to working with you in looking after paradise”.
While some of McKenzie’s Liberal colleagues were quick to slam her decision to be snapped with an opposition MP as “unforgiveable” and “naive”, McKenzie was equally quick to defend her actions, and so were plenty of her high-profile supporters. McKenzie returned to Facebook, saying that it was her job “to show grace and gratitude towards good people on all sides. Australian democracy needs good people, fighting it out to keep this country the best place on earth”. “So, congratulations Jodie, fair fight: campaigns are knackering for you and those you love. I hope to have the same cordial and collaborative relationship with you I had with your predecessor, Peta Murphy.”
More than 140 others from various sides of the political spectrum commented on her post and praised her bipartisan approach. Gippsland’s Nationals MP Darren Chester, known for his calm and considered take on political dramas, backed McKenzie, saying “don’t change”. Liberal Leichhardt MP Warren Entsch “completely” agreed “… well done, many can learn from your actions. Keep fighting the way you are, you’re a breath of fresh air and more strength to your arm”. Former Flinders candidate Susie Beveridge wrote: “Thanks for keeping it real Zoe”, and said McKenzie’s ability to work with all elected representatives “is welcome and much valued”.
Mornington Peninsula Shire councillor and former independent candidate for Flinders, Despi O’Connor, wrote ”fantastic Zoe McKenzie MP! This is exactly what we need more of“. Somerville Business Group posted, “Well said Zoe McKenzie MP, breaking down the barriers and red tape is better for all”.
McKenzie met Belyea a few years ago when she came to her seeking support for volunteer-led initiative The Women’s Spirit Project, which helps women across the Mornington Peninsula when they have fallen on difficult times, especially family violence and financial adversity. She said she supported the project’s application for federal money in late 2022 and met Beylea again in September last year to brainstorm further finance options. “I do that with everyone, whether that person’s politics is blue, red, green, orange, yellow, purple. That is my job,” McKenzie wrote on Facebook.
First published in the Mornington News – 12th March 2024
