I had already been inducted into Parliament so I knew something of what to expect, but nothing could really prepare me for standing and speaking on the floor of the NSW Parliament for the first time.

What a privilege, and I thank the people of the Dubbo electorate for giving me that privilege.

It's an incredible part of the State, and it's a unique feeling to know that I'll be the voice for people right across the region in this Parliament for the next four years.

I was the first of the so-called new brigade to speak in the 57th Parliament of NSW.

I've spoken to literally thousands of people from all walks of life during my career as a radio presenter, but I don't think there've been too many times where I've been quite this nervous or excited about speaking.

I'd like to thank everyone who's come along to support me in person today, or might be watching via the live stream.

My fellow 'new' Nationals Member, the MP for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh, delivered his inaugural speech following mine and I know we're both proud to have entered this Parliament - and excited to see what we can achieve.

I would like to formally acknowledge the former member for the Dubbo Electorate, Mr Troy Grant, and wish he and his family all the best for the future.

I stand as the 14th representative for the state electorate of Dubbo, which was first proclaimed in 1894, and had its second incarnation from 1930. This is an honour, and it's one that is certainly not lost on me.

The electorate of Dubbo now is completely different to what it was eight years ago - yes there has been a boundary change - but the prosperity and the belief in the region has changed completely since Troy was elected as part of a new Government back in 2011. I'll now be working hard to continue that impact and influence as I take the baton forward.

I'm proud and excited to work with the leadership team of Premier Gladys Berejiklian and Deputy Premier John Barilaro... both have been extremely welcoming and supportive - Thank you very much. I'd also like to thank every Minister who's extended that support, and the MP's who have made this new journey feel a bit more 'normal'.

I spoke on the day about the type of local Member I plan to be. I think people right across the electorate want to feel like they're being listened to and represented by someone who cares and has their back - and that's exactly what I'll be doing.

My team and I will be out and about in the electorate as much as possible and our door is always open.

As I mentioned during my speech, I've had a fantastic chance to connect with people right across the region through radio over the past decade - but I'm now looking forward to providing a tangible link between problems and solutions, and providing help in a whole new way.

I want to be accessible to people across the region and I am honoured to be their voice. I've been told quite a few times in the past few weeks that now the 'real' work starts.

I suppose that's true, but it's also worth recognising that there's been a huge amount of work that's gone into getting this far. The way I see it, now is the start of making the 'real' difference!

I'm looking forward to working with all of my new colleagues across the board, and helping ensure the people across my region continue to get what they need and deserve.

A beautiful Mother's Day afternoon at Dundullimal Homestead - National Trust of Australia NSW.

We enjoyed 'High Tea' served by the fabulous volunteers, and great music thanks to some of the talented students from the Macquarie Conservatorium. Well done!

Until next week,

Dugald Saunders