FREMANTLE’S candidate for billionaire Clive Palmer’s political party says he wasn’t put up for the position by his boss—billionaire Clive Palmer.

The mining tycoon already has three employees signed up to run in the looming federal election under his United Australia Party banner, but Vashil Sharma says he’s there under his own steam. Mr Sharma is a project manager for Mr Palmer’s mining company Mineralogy Pty Ltd.

“I went to the Palmer United website, completed the application and offered to put my hand up,” he said.

Mr Sharma replaces Hilton local Teresa van Lieshout who was endorsed by Mr Palmer on the same day he met her, but ditched less than two weeks later for not toeing the party

“By working with one of Australia’s most successful businessmen, I am able to pick up the skills necessary to inspire the nation and produce the results,” Mr Sharma says.

“We have too many professional politicians who don’t work with or under anyone and that’s wrong for the country.

“He has always been a strong leader in the community and serves the community well.

“He has contributed towards many charities and I think he is an inspiration to serve as well.”

The Highgate local, who is moving to the port city next month, said Fremantle’s lagging economy could be boosted by enticing more cruise ships.

Perhaps he’ll have a word in the ear of his boss, who earlier this year revealed plans to construct a replica of the ill-fated Titanic, which is expected to be launched in 2016.

“We have to look at the infrastructure and ensure we have the right infrastructure to attract cruise ships to Fremantle and to strengthen the tourism of Rottnest Island,” he said. Mr Sharma said there was nothing “outrageous” about the flamboyant mining mogul’s policies.

“They are common sense solutions to what Australians need to do to regenerate the community,” he said. “The truth is he is practical and down to earth and that is why I support him.”

by BRENDAN FOSTER