TWO Liberal National Party members will go head to head today as they vie to see who will represent the party in the seat of Lockyer in the upcoming state election.

Current Lockyer Valley regional councillor David Neuendorf is confident he is in with a good chance to unseat the long-standing Member for Lockyer, Ian Rickuss.

Cr Neuendorf, who has worked in local government for the past 11 years and lived in the Lockyer Valley his entire life, said he had what it took to become the region’s next MP.

“I believe I have a lot to offer this electorate and this state as well,” Cr Neuendorf said.

“I’ve had a lot of pressure on me from branch members and also people living in this electorate to seek pre-selection for this seat.

“It’s a decision I haven’t taken lightly, but I’ve decided to take up the challenge because I believe this party is ready for renewal and I know I can do the job well.”

Current Member for Lockyer Ian Rickuss, who has held the seat for the past seven years, said Cr Neuendorf was well within his rights to seek pre-selection.

“Every LNP member can challenge a seat. It’s their democratic right,” Mr Rickuss said. “I’ve gone around speaking to party members and I know they support me in my role.

“I’m pleased to have a challenge but I think my chances of retaining the endorsement are pretty high.”

Mr Rickuss said regardless of the outcome of tomorrow’s pre-selection, he would still be the MP for Lockyer until the next state election.

“I’ve worked extremely hard in this electorate over the past seven years and particularly hard in the past 12 months.”

A decision on the pre-selection will be made today in Gatton, when the party meets.