Local Members
Mark Coulton MP
Shadow Parliamentary Secretary for Ageing and the Voluntary Sector
Federal Member for Parkes
Biography
Mark Coulton was elected as the Member for Parkes in November 2007. His election to Federal Parliament followed three years service as the Mayor of the new and progressive Gwydir Shire Council from 2004 until 2007.
Family and community are two things Mark values above all else. His commitment to the community has been marked by his membership of a wide variety of local community organisations, including the Warialda Pony Club and Bush Fire Brigade. He is also a member and past President of the Warialda Pastoral and Agricultural Association, an Honorary Member of the Warialda Rotary Club and life member of Warialda Apex.
Mark grew up on the family property “Avondale” at Gravesend, New South Wales and was educated at Warialda Public School before boarding at Farrer Memorial Agricultural High School. An active participant in school life, he played rugby league, while riding and working with horses has also been a big part of his life.
After completing the HSC, Mark returned to the family farm. In 1981, he married Robyn, who had arrived from Sydney to teach at the small primary school at Gravesend. The couple operated a farming business until 2006, when they sold their properties to give a 100% commitment to representing the people of the Parkes electorate.
The couple have three children; Claire, a teacher; Sally, who is studying medicine; and Matthew, who is currently on a gap year overseas. In his spare time, Mark enjoys spending time with his family and friends.
