Legalise Cannabis WA has revealed its lineup of candidates for the upcoming state election, with Dr Brian Walker heading the ticket. Former party MP Sophia Moermond is absent from the slate after departing to contest the election as an independent.
Dr Walker is a medical practitioner who won a seat in the Legislative Council in March 2021 and chaired WA's Select Committee into Cannabis and Hemp.
Moermond was also elected in 2021 but announced last month that she had split with the party due to "an agreed difference in strategic direction" and would run as an independent at the next election.
The West Australian reported that she walked away after being placed in an unwinnable position on the party's Legislative Council ticket, a result she attributed to her attendance at an anti-trans rally.
Moermond said in a statement: "I am saddened that our strategies no longer align, however, I am confident in my decision to be an independent MP for the South West. I am still very passionate about hemp and cannabis law reform, in particular driving laws and workplace discrimination of medicinal cannabis patients.
"I will now be able to speak on issues such as energy and environment, putting forth my views rather than that of the party."
Legalise Cannabis WA said it respected Moermond's decision, adding: "Sophia has been an ardent, hard-working supporter of the cannabis legalisation movement in WA and we look forward to continuing to work with her on these important reforms."
The remaining candidates on the 2025 ballot, listed in order, are:
Melissa D'Ath, an entrepreneur and sitting Margaret River councillor with a broad public service background, including a stint as president of the Chamber of Commerce.
Dr Craig Buchanan, an academic, political research officer, and two-term councillor on the City of Rockingham Council.
Taryn Davis, who has held a range of government roles across WA spanning energy, housing, waste management, sustainable living, and natural resource management.
Frances Barns, who brings more than 20 years of experience in international development and public policy, with a focus on human rights, harm reduction, and public health.
Legalise Cannabis WA said: "These dedicated individuals bring a wealth of experience and a shared commitment to advocating for cannabis reform and the development of sustainable hemp industries in Western Australia."
The election is scheduled for March 8, 2025.
