A Lake Macquarie politician has expressed her disappointment after her electorate was rebuffed by a NSW Government initiative, which honours community members.

Swansea state MP Yasmin Catley even went as far as labelling the snub another “rort” by the Liberal powerbrokers.

The Blue Plaques program was established to recognise individuals, landmarks and events of historical importance throughout NSW.

In the first phase of the application process, a total of 763 submissions were received, however only 17 garnered success – all located in Liberal, National or Independent seats.

Unfortunately, Swansea was one of the many Labor constituencies to miss out.

This occurred after Ms Catley worked with local residents and historical groups to support them in placing their nominations.

Applications were submitted for Australian snooker/billiards champion Eddie Charlton and renowned boatbuilder James Lewis Boyd, who played a key role in shaping the area.

Ms Catley was quick to vent her frustration.

“It is disgusting that the NSW Government has politicised the Blue Plaques program instead of fairly recognising the historical individuals, landmarks and events that have shaped communities right across the state,” she stated.

“They should be ashamed of their latest rort.

“A total of 763 submissions were placed, yet not one Labor electorate was successful.

“I am disappointed that the efforts of community members and organisations to preserve local history have gone unnoticed because the Liberals decided to rig the program to suit their own political agenda.”

Ms Catley said the “scam” followed a trail of likewise decisions.

“During the recovery phase of the 2019-2020 Black Summer Bushfires, the Central Coast, which consists of Labor seats, missed out on financial relief despite enduring a $163 million blow to the local economy,” she explained.

“Last year, it was also revealed the Stronger Communities Fund had directed 96% of funding to councils in Coalition or marginal seats, despite the program being designed to provide financial support to forcibly-amalgamated councils.

“The NSW Liberals have proven to the public time and time again that they are an unjust government.

“They’ve shown the people of this state that they cannot be trusted to do the right thing.”

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