A POTENTIAL hub of political power has emerged on the Mid-North Coast.
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Last week Cowper MP Luke Hartsuyker confirmed his leadership ambitions for the National Party, and he has been joined by Lyne MP Dr David Gillespie.
"I think it's really important for the National Party going forward that we have a strong leadership team," Mr Hartsuyker said on Friday.
That team could include him, though current deputy of the party Barnaby Joyce has made it clear he wants the top job for himself when leader Warren Truss steps aside.
Mr Hartsuyker was emphatic that urging within the Nationals had convinced him it was time to push for a bigger role.
"Absolutely [it's the right time], absolutely.
"Leadership opportunities do not come up very often in the National Party; we are a very stable party.
"Party people and the people of regional Australia tell me they want a team that's going to deliver in the interests of regional Australia, but they also want a team that's going to deliver against a backdrop of stable government."
Another name which has been reported by the Canberra press gallery for leadership within the Nationals is that of Dr Gillespie.
While he is a relative newcomer, Dr Gillespie said he was "flattered" that people might consider him for one of his party's, and Australia's, top gigs.
"I am flattered by [being mentioned]," he said.
"But I would hope that every person that manages to get [to an elected position in Canberra] considers [a leadership position]."
The physician will likely lose Port Macquarie if he is re-elected, due to Cowper taking part of Lyne in a boundary redistribution that will be gazetted next month.
While less emphatic than his northern colleague in discussing leadership ambitions, Dr Gillespie said he will work hard regardless of his status.
"Everyone would consider [a leadership position]," he said.
"It is largely a matter of the opinion of my peers, but for now it doesn't matter.
"Warren is the leader, and we will worry about [leadership] if and when it happens.
"I'm focusing on doing a good job for my electorate which means getting good outcomes for the community every day."
Both politicians will be in Port Macquarie on Friday for a NSW Business Chamber lunch to discuss the electoral boundaries redistribution.