Mr Birrell announced in recent weeks that he had resigned as chief executive officer of the Committee for Greater Shepparton after six years at the helm.
“I confirm that I will be seeking pre-selection for the National Party to contest the Division of Nicholls in the upcoming federal election,” he said in a brief statement.
“I have lived in this region for most of my life, and I care about it deeply.”
Mr Birrell said the region had benefited enormously from Federal Government investments and policy initiatives that were the result of the hard work and community engagement of the outgoing member Damian Drum.
“My strong conviction is that to continue this positive momentum for Nicholls, we need a highly capable Nationals member in a re-elected coalition government, and I will be focusing all my abilities and energies on achieving that outcome. Despite the achievements so far, there is more work to do,” he said.
The election will be a hard fought contest, with businessman and Greater Shepparton councillor Rob Priesly already running as an independent, and Mr Drum’s retirement opening the door for a Liberal candidate.
Cobram farmer and teacher Stephen Brooks has confirmed he will seek Liberal Party pre-selection.
“I have spent the last week consulting with close friends, extended family, and local Liberal members, farmers and small business owners about potentially running in the upcoming federal election,” he said.
“I can confirm that as of this morning (Monday), I have submitted my application to seek Liberal Party endorsement for the seat of Nicholls.”
Mr Brooks, 38, is a fourth generation farmer who has a pomegranate orchard and also teaches business studies at Cobram Secondary College.
If more applications are received the processes to select a candidate will take place in January.
