Liberal Party candidate Sophie Mirabella is caught up in controversy, following claims she publicly pushed her political rival Cathy McGowan.
The allegation, published by the Benalla Ensign, took place at the opening of the Alice Goulding Wing at Cooinda Village aged care facility in Benalla on April 15.
According to The New Daily, the independent MP’s spokesperson said that “an unfortunate incident had occurred” between the politicians.
“Ms McGowan requested a photo be taken with visiting Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care, Ken Wyatt,” said the spokesperson.
“Ms McGowan said the Liberal candidate [Ms Mirabella] intervened to prevent the photo being taken.”
However, the former member for Indi denies the allegations, taking to Twitter on Thursday 21 April to put forward her side of the story.
“I emphatically reject reports I pushed Cathy McGowan,” Ms Mirabella tweeted.
“Reporter did not even bother 2 call me. A sad return 2 nasty tactics from my opponents.”
She also released an official statement, where she stated that it was “extremely disappointing that the journalist at no time sought to contact me or check the facts or seek a right of reply”.
“I am currently investigating my legal remedies and those available through the Australian Press Council.”
Despite Ms Mirabella’s denial of the allegations, writer of the original piece and former ABC reporter Libby Price, is adamant the incident occurred, adding that the push took place in the presence of a number of witnesses.
