Businessman wins preselection for Hinkler
BUNDABERG businessman Keith Pitt has won the LNP preselection for the long-held federal conservative seat of Hinkler for next year's election.
The endorsement was decided in a meeting of the party faithful on Saturday.
Mr Pitt, a father of three, runs a safety and training service for more than 1000 local businesses, employing 15 staff.
The endorsement puts him as the front-running candidate for Hinkler, which has been held by incumbent Paul Neville for more than 20 years.
Born into a sugar cane farming family, Mr Pitt has also worked as an apprentice tradesman, farmer and manager.
He has served as a surf lifesaver for 10 years, and supports the local Volunteer Marine Rescue unit and the Wide Bay International Airshow.
LNP state director Brad Henderson said he was a proven hard worker with the life experience and energy to serve the electorate.
"Keith Pitt has lived and worked throughout Hinkler all his life so he understands this region, its industries and its people," Mr Henderson said.
"In Keith Pitt, Hinkler will have a strong, common sense voice in Federal Parliament who knows how to get results."
