Nationals deny Lyne loss a threat to party
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Rob Oakeshott will be one of only three independents sitting in the federal Lower House (ABC)
The federal Nationals are coming to terms with another loss on the New South Wales north coast after Rob Oakeshott's commanding victory in yesterday's Lyne by-election.
The independent former state MP has won about 65 per cent of the primary vote to claim victory in the traditionally safe Nationals seat, which was previously held by former leader Mark Vaile.
Mr Oakeshott says it is a sign that independent and community-based politicians are challenging the major parties in the area.
"Regardless of vested interests, you have to fight for those local interests first," he said.
But Nationals state director Ben Franklin says Mr Oakeshott's old state seat covers large parts of Lyne and denies that the party's long-term future in the region is under threat.
"It was always going to be a tough by-election, no question that Rob Oakeshott is a popular local member," he said.
Mr Oakeshott will be one of only three independents sitting in the federal Lower House.
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