Former Millicent resident Major “Moogy” Sumner is making a third attempt to enter Federal Parliament as a Greens MP by standing for Barker at the May 3 poll.


Mr Sumner has previously contested the seat of Mayo for the Greens and stood for the Senate.


Now living in Adelaide, Mr Sumner spent a significant portion of his early life in Millicent, attended local schools and regularly returns to this region.


Wearing traditional dress, he makes a distinctive sight as he performs indigenous smoking ceremonies at major public occasions.


Aged in his 70s, his election manifesto outlines his candidacy for Barker which is being contested by at least five other candidates including Liberal incumbent Tony Pasin.


“I became a Member of the Order of Australia in 2014 after dedicating my life to promoting Aboriginal health and welfare, and youth and cultural heritage,” Mr Sumner said.


“I am a Ngarrindjeri elder and an artist, performer and cultural ambassador.


“I formed the Tal-kin-jeri Dance Group almost 30 years ago and have performed around the world.


“I’m passionate about people and planet – particularly saving the Murray and protecting the Great Australian Bight, while fighting to address inequality and for more Aboriginal representation in the federal parliament.”


Mr Sumner said he would strive to protect the environment and would work in Canberra for a more sustainable nation and caring community.


“By looking at things from a cultural perspective, I believe we can do more to care for people and country than we currently are,” he said.


“I will fight the greed that has allowed our rivers to be drained and the Great Australian Bight to be put at risk from big oil and gas companies.


“By educating our young people and investing in renewable energy, I know we can do what is right by our country and each other.


“In 2023, I was proud to be elected to South Australia’s First Nations Voice to Parliament.”