Magenta Marshall: Mark McGowan receives rock star reception at Labor hopeful launch in Rockingham

Former Premier Mark McGowan has received a rock star reception from the party faithful as he turned out for the official launch of Labor hopeful Magenta Marshall’s Rockingham campaign. In his first public turnout to an ALP event since his shock resignation from politics, Mr McGowan joined new Premier Roger Cook and Ms Marshall for the launch. Looking refreshed, Mr McGowan laughed as ACDC’s TNT filled the room. Rockingham is a safe Labor seat currently held at a 37.7 per cent margin. Nevertheless, the Rockingham by election will be a good gauge as to how Labor is travelling in WA. The former Rockingham MLA had the Labor faithful eating out of his hands, cracking a few jokes. “It’s unusual to be wearing a suit to be honest with you,” Mr McGowan said. “The only suits I wear these days have a track in front of them.” Mr McGowan talked up Labor’s achievements, including the delivery of a new train line between Perth, Mandurah and the southern suburbs in the 2000s. “These days of course it’s a $5 trip, which is pretty good value,” Mr McGowan said. “I can tell you for someone who is now retired, that’s great value.” Labor holds Rockingham with a massive 37 per cent margin. Even so, Mr Cook warned against complacency. Ms Marshall said cost of living was a major issue with Rockingham voters, talking up the government’s $400 power credit and free public transport for Smart Rider holders on the first Sunday of each month.