Robyn Parker seized the seat in 2011 with a 16 per cent swing to the Liberals in a landslide win for the Coalition.

Her move from MLC to MP marked the demise of Labor’s Frank Terenzini after one term.

Ms Parker said she would let Labor campaign all they wanted while she gets on with the job.

“I can’t be focused on shadow ­ministers who pop up from Sydney,” she said.

“I’m focused on being the best member I can be.”

So far this month five opposition frontbenchers, including Leader John Robertson have called into Maitland where the party has ­appointed Jenny Aitchison as its ­candidate.

“Obviously I’m hopeful in our chances and I’ll be working very hard to make sure people get to know me very well,” Ms Aitchison said.

 “I know it’s going to be a long 11 months, but I am confident I would represent Maitland well.”

Opposition spokeswoman for transport Penny Sharpe was the last Labor figure in a convoy of support for Ms Aitchison that has included opposition spokeswoman for Hunter Sonia Hornery, the spokeswoman for local government Sophie Cotsis, spokesman for roads Walt Secord and Opposition Leader John Robertson.

Despite all the attention, Mr Robertson would not be drawn on Labor’s chances of clawing back Maitland.

“Maitland is a crucial area of the Hunter and Labor has an exceptional local candidate in Jenny Aitchison,” he said.

“Labor will spend the next 12 months listening and talking to the community of Maitland about the issues that matter to them.”

Ms Parker said she had achieved her goals in the first term and would continue to advocate for Maitland.

She counted the government’s $20 million Lower Hunter Hospital commitment and $45 million for roundabout treatments among her achievements, as well as $5.6 million No.1 Sportsground upgrade and $2 million for the Maitland Hospital mental health ward.

“I’ll be interested to hear their costed plans and timetable for the new hospital,” Ms Parker said. 

“So far they haven’t promised a hospital, don’t like the site, and want it built now, but we’re getting on with the work that needs to be done.

“It’s not a campaign for me I’m just doing what’s required of a Maitland member.”