Sophie Cotsis, the Member for Canterbury and first woman of Greek heritage to serve in the NSW parliament is in the midst of a campaign for re-election for the NSW State Election to be held on Saturday, 23 March. Canterbury is the home to one of the biggest Greek communities in the world and is amongst the most multicultural places in Australia. One can’t help be mesmerised by the charming suburbs, parks, shops and eateries of the Canterbury area. Born at Canterbury Hospital to parents from Lesvos, the clubhouse of the Mytilenean Brotherhood sits by the Cooks River, a place where she and her family have had many fond memories.

Spending almost a year battling breast cancer, her return to the electorate and serving her constituents has brought a smile and a sense of relief to the 46 year old.

Ms Cotsis first served in the NSW Parliament in the Legislative Council between 7 September 2010 until 16 September 2016, when she resigned and successfully ran for the seat of Canterbury that was vacated by Linda Burney. Ms Burney, who moved on to the Federal Seat of Barton, is one the nation’s foremost politicians, and is of Wiradjuri and Scottish descent. Both women seem to reflect the diversity and gender balance that the Labor Party has sought to attain; a genuine reflection of modern Australia.

They hosted a barbeque on Saturday, 24 February at the Campsie South Bowling Club with over 200 supporters and volunteers in attendance. They were also joined by Ed Husic, the Member for Chifley.

Ms Cotsis told supporters, friends and colleagues of her hopes for another term, with education, Canterbury Hospital, health, good jobs, free TAFE, environment and local issues top of her agenda.

Since 2016, Sophie and her office have responded and engaged with thousands of residents, schools, businesses and other stakeholders on local issues and this is something they fully intend to continue with.

The Canterbury state Labor MP is excited to be campaigning again after taking a leave of absence in 2018 to fight breast cancer. Toward the last few weeks of last year, Ms Cotsis turned the spotlight on her own health and breast cancer, urging women and men to put their own health first.

“This was a difficult time for me and my family and I deeply appreciate the steadfast support of my wonderful family, friends, my local community, staff and colleagues,” Ms Cotsis said.

“I now look forward to doing what I love and representing my community,  and to fight the 2019 NSW State Election as the Member for Canterbury. We are confident that Michael Daley will become the next Premier of our wonderful state.” Sophie was particular grateful to the local Labor branch members and volunteers who love Canterbury as much as she does.

For more information or to help with the campaign: sophie.cotsis@nswlabor.org.au