Liberal candidate Chris Crewther who was unsuccessful in Mallee in 2013 federal election is now close to winning Dunkley

Mr Crewther failed to take Mallee from the Nationals after John Forrest retired, but he was about 1300 votes ahead on Thursday to retain a south-east Melbourne seat for the Liberals.

Mr Crewther said if he won he would bring good country values to Parliament and would represent both his new electorate and his experience of growing up in Horsham and Murtoa.

“There are about 8000 postal votes to be counted and they have favoured us by 61 per cent,” Mr Crewther said.

“Former Member for Dunkley Bruce Billson has been in Parliament for 20 years and it’s big shoes to fill.

“I’d be honoured to represent Dunkely on the national stage and also be another voice for regional Victoria.”