Chris Buckingham, of Warragul, has been endorsed as the Labor candidate for Bass for next year's state election.
Mr Buckingham admitted the move came "a bit out of the blue" but saw it as a terrific opportunity to represent a community and region he loved.
The ALP's endorsement follows Member for Bass Jordan Crugnale's announcement she wouldn't contest the next election.

Despite still living in Warragul, Mr Buckingham said he had close ties