Federal election vote counts for key Melbourne swing seats with Zoe Daniel yet to concede Goldstein where Tim Wilson’s lead has narrowed; Kooyong is finally called for Monique Ryan; final words on Bruce and Wills

After covering the Kooyong electorate during the federal election, I can’t help but feel a sense of exhaustion, bewilderment, and awe. The race between Monique Ryan and Amelia Hamer promised intrigue, but I didn’t expect the level of commotion that unfolded – right up until the last moment when Ryan claimed victory.

Even before the campaign began, Kooyong was making headlines. Ryan’s husband, Peter Jordan, was caught on camera taking a Hamer campaign sign, and the meme-worthy footage became fuel for mockery and criticism. Meanwhile, Hamer faced backlash for her own misstep when it was revealed she owned two investment properties, contradicting her public persona as a renter concerned about the housing crisis.

The campaign also attracted negative attention when vandalism and graffiti targeted Hamer, and both candidates faced challenges with candidate forums and media appearances. The involvement of a funding vehicle behind the teal independents, Climate 200, also led to controversy, particularly regarding push-polling efforts.

Despite these challenges, both campaigns saw support from younger volunteers and supporters, indicating a positive sign for democracy. However, the campaign also saw instances of childishness, particularly from the Liberal Party, which targeted Ryan with misinformation and personal attacks.

Ultimately, Ryan claimed the seat of Kooyong, marking a significant shift in the electorate’s political landscape. Her victory reaffirms the transformation of Kooyong into a battleground, one that will likely be even more challenging for the Liberals in future elections.