STEVE Irons is celebrating a fifth election success in the battleground seat of Swan after his more-favoured rival, Labor’s Hannah Beazley, officially conceded the seat this afternoon.
The Liberal MP led the two-party preferred count by close to 2200 votes at 3pm Sunday, with preliminary counting finished at all but three of Swan’s 50 polling venues.
In a written statement, Ms Beazley confirmed it was clear she wasn’t going to emerge victorious.
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“After further counting today, it has become clear that I have not been successful in the seat of Swan,” she said.
“I would like to congratulate Steve Irons, and wish him the best as he continues to represent our community.
“I have spoken to thousands of residents in Swan over the course of this campaign, and I have loved hearing their stories and aspirations for our community.”
“I would like to thank all of my volunteers and supporters for the countless hours they have dedicated to our Swan campaign.
“I’d also like to thank the Australian Labor Party, especially leader Bill Shorten for putting their faith in me as a candidate, and for their constant support and encouragement.
“I’d also like to thank my family, especially my husband Andrew and my sons David and Benjamin for their eternal love and support.
Last night Ms Beazley told her supporters that they’d done well to achieve a small swing, but it might not be enough to triumph in a close campaign.
“My number one aim was to get to today and leave no stone unturned, and we did just that.”