The Australian Women's Register

Summary

Patricia Ellen Langworthy contested the 1981 New South Wales Legislative Assembly elections in Manly. She was an Independent candidate who was unknown in the electorate at the time of her campaign. This was because she lived in Matraville, a suburb of Sydney far removed from Manly. Patricia Langworthy was a surprise candidate and despite her denials, was widely believed to represent the Melbourne-based organization, Pro-Life. Her campaign literature was described by her opponent, Nelson Meers, as “disgusting, sickening and in extremely bad taste” and he sought to distance himself from the fact that her preferences were directed to him. Her so-called “Dead Babies” leaflet became the subject of state-wide comment on news and talkback shows. According to Ernest Chaples she admitted knowing nothing about politics and only agreed to allow Pro-Life leaders to nominate her at her brother’s suggestion.
After the election, Langworthy disappeared and was unable to be located, even by the State Public Funding Authority.