After a narrow loss in last year's upper house election, Janie Finlay now has a victory to call her own.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The Labor newcomer has been confirmed to take the fifth seat in Bass, after receiving 11,183 votes.
And, it's a victory she was happy to claim, crediting her more than two decades of public service to securing a "loyal" grassroots following.
IN OTHER NEWS:
"I have had 21 years in local government. I've had 21 years serving the community and getting to really understand and love everything about this place and the community," she said.
"So I think people really appreciate positive, grassroots, community-led, values-led, high performance service.
"That's what I really aspire to be. I think it's just consistency in the community, consistency caring and consistency connecting."
As predicted, the Liberal party held on to three seats in Bass, with Labor holding onto its two. However, Ms Finlay's popularity and subsequent votes came at the expense of Labor running mate Jennifer Houston.
When asked if it made her achievement bittersweet, Ms Finlay said people who choose community service, do so because they want to make a difference.
"Jen was super passionate and super committed to our community. We've had some great talks on the phone, and I wish Jen and her family really well with their next steps," Ms Finlay said.
"There's no doubt she is completely community orientated. I'm sure she will continue to make a big impact."
Ms Finlay's election will mark her first venture into state politics.
Admitting she still had a lot to learn, she said she was ready to get to work.
"I am excited, I'm grateful and nervous and I'm really looking forward to soaking it all up and learning everything there is to learn," she said.
"Getting to understand the parliamentary processes and getting more deeply involved in understanding the beauty of being involved in a team and family."
With the Liberal majority government confirmed, speculation continues to mount around the future of the Labor leadership, with formal discussions expected to be held once the new caucus is formally elected.
Ms Finlay said while she would definitely put her hand up in support of Rebecca White holding onto the position, ultimately she just wants what's best for the state.
"I had the absolute pleasure of seeing Rebecca at work and lead us through this election and I have nothing but masses of admiration for her," she said.
"[If] she retains the leadership, I would definitely have her back and I would love to be part of that.
"For me, it's about what's in the best interest of Tassie ... our party, our community and I will get to work to help in what ever way I can."
Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can continue to access our trusted content:
- Bookmark www.examiner.com.au
- Make sure you are signed up for our breaking and regular headlines newsletters
- Follow us on Twitter: @examineronline
- Follow us on Instagram: @examineronline