By Charlene Macaulay
Labor MP Tim Pallas will retain the seat of Werribee as the Labor Party stormed to victory in tonight’s state election.
Mr Pallas currently holds 48.06 per cent of the primary vote with just over 31 per cent of votes counted.
Werribee GP and Independent Dr Joe Garra had polled exceptionally well, with 18.64 of first preference votes, followed by the Liberals’ Gayle Murphy, who is currently sitting on 15.55 per cent of the primary vote.
At this stage no votes have been counted for two of today’s polling centres, or early and postal votes lodged prior to polling day.
While statewide there was a strong overall swing toward Labor, Mr Pallas is currently 9.9 per cent behind on first preferences compared to his 2014 victory, thanks largely to the strong showing by Dr Garra.
Dr Garra said although it seems unlikely he will achieve victory following preferences, he is pleased to have achieved a swing against the Labor Party.
Mr Pallas could not be contacted for comment.
Over in the seat of Altona, incumbent MP Jill Hennessy has held onto her seat , securing 54.46 per cent of the primary vote with 32 per cent of the vote counted.
Ms Hennessy branded the Labor Party’s win a bloodbath.
“This is an incredible result for Daniel Andrews and his team,” she said.
