SST predicts Kirk to retire

The Sunday Star-Times is tipping that National Party President Judy Kirk will retire this year.

Judy took over in 2002, and it has been a most sucessful six years under her presidency. The party vote has gone from 21% to 45%, but also the membership has soared to what I think is an 18 year high. Judy is well known for always stressing the importance of the party vote, and of members.

The article is somewhat astray in picking former president Michelle Boag as a possible replacement. Apart from any other considerations, they seem to be unaware the National Board now appoint the President, not the National Conference. Hence the most likely replacements (if Judy does retire – the article is only tipping it) is a current board member or perhaps a Regional Chair.