Dr Gillespie was endorsed at three previous elections (2010, 2013, 2016) and will now contest a fourth.

After running unsuccessfully against Rob Oakeshott in 2010, he was elected in 2013 and retained his seat in 2016, when a re-distribution of electorates saw Lyne’s southern boundary moved down to cover Lorn and Bolwarra.

He has held assistant ministries in rural health, health and children and families this term.“It has been an absolute honour and privilege to be selected to run for The Nationals and to represent the people of our wonderful part of Australia,” Dr Gillespie said.

Dr Gillespie listed government investment in infrastructure, health and aged care, education and regional community and economic programs as highlights of the past term.

After losing his ministry in the Morrison Government in August, he told Fairfax Media the top items on his priority list included aged care, roads, telecommunications and energy. 

The MP and gastroenterologist, who lives at Sancrox near Wauchope, also said in the past five years, he had enjoyed helping residents who had turned to him for assistance.

“There are many people who have contacted me with various issues and ideas and I have enjoyed playing a role in representing them and trying to help resolve their issues,” he said.

“In addition to the wonderful support I have received from our community, I’d like to thank my wife Charlotte and my family for their love and support in helping me dedicate the time and effort to doing this important job.”

Mr Gillespie will take on Labor’s Phil Costa in battle for the seat after Mr Costa’s endorsement was announced last month.

The date for the Federal Election has not yet been announced, but the vote must be held before May 18.