Illustration: John Shakespeare

Gladys Berejiklian is facing a critical byelection in Wagga Wagga this weekend, but it’s good to see she’s still passing the tin around for the main game: the March state election.

Given only five seats could stand between the NSW Liberals and electoral oblivion - Premier Luke Foley (or Michael Daley or Jodie McKay or Chris Minns) - they needs all the money they can get.

Which brings us to “a great opportunity to discuss” the government’s policies with Berejiklian and her nine most senior ministers over a series of intimate lunches and dinners planned by the party over the next two months starting Monday (at a location to be advised).

How much for access to the likes of high-performing Transport Minister Andrew Constance you ask? It’s a mere $2500 a go, or, for the very keen, a $5000 subscription (for five events).