Abbott accepts invitation to visit Geraldton shores

Tony Abbott is coming to Geraldton.

The Prime Minister will be in town on Sunday to host an afternoon tea with community groups, followed by a meeting with nearby Liberal Party branches and an exclusive dinner with some representatives of the business community.

Mr Abbott will be the first Prime Minister to come to Geraldton since Kevin Rudd, who hosted a community cabinet at John Willcock College in October 2009.

It’s a big week for Geraldton with former Premier Dr Geoff Gallop returning to his home town for the official opening of the office of Member for the Agricultural region Darren West.

Of course the Prime Minister’s visit may not eventuate if Mr Abbott is replaced this week.

There is increasing speculation it’s only a matter of when, not if, Mr Abbott is replaced as Prime Minister, with some party room faithful hoping he resigns to avoid a messy leadership ballot.

Member for Durack Melissa Price said she was “speechless” and it was exciting to be able to bring the Prime Minister to Geraldton for the first time in more than five years.

Ms Price said she had been lobbying for a while to get Mr Abbott to visit the Mid West, and she said she was glad his busy schedule allowed it.

“I’m very, very pleased he’s accepted my invitation to come to Geraldton, ” she said. “We’ve particularly chosen community groups to meet him.

“Later that day, business groups will have the opportunity to meet the Prime Minister.”

Ms Price said it was an opportunity to showcase Geraldton and for people around Australia to see what’s good about the Mid West.

“We often miss out on things, so I’m so happy we get the opportunity for the Prime Minister to come to Geraldton, ” she said.

“Not every town gets the opportunity for a PM to come.

“A lot of people I’ve spoken to are really excited about the visit.”