An underdog in the race, Mr Pappin entered polling day confident he could become the “Prince of Penzance for Farrer”.
But there was to be no 2015 Melbourne Cup-style upset.
A strong surge towards One Nation dominated the vote, leaving little room for rival candidates to gain traction.
In the end, Mr Pappin secured 761 first preference votes, finishing with 0.77 per cent of the vote in his first tilt at federal politics.
Despite the result, Mr Pappin was gracious in defeat and among the first candidates to congratulate One Nation’s David Farley on his victory.
“Mr Farley has acted with great persistence and tenacity,” he said.
“I expect he will do his best in parliament for the constituents of Farrer.”
He also thanked each of his fellow candidates for their support and sportsmanship throughout the race.
Although it was a fierce contest leading into polling day, Mr Pappin was the only rival candidate singled out during Mr Farley’s victory speech at the One Nation reception.
“It’s been a competition ... they fought well,” Mr Farley said.
“There was one gentleman in particular, I really enjoyed his company. He was a real Aussie, and that was Gary Pappin.
“Well played, well fought and mate, we’ll see you back on the hustings again I’m sure.”
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