A by-election was held for the New South Wales Legislative Assembly electorate of Patrick's Plains on 8 February 1866 because Bowie Wilson had been appointed Secretary for Lands in the second Martin ministry.[1] Such ministerial by-elections were usually uncontested however on this occasion a poll was required in Patrick's Plains and Yass Plains (Robert Isaacs). Both ministers were comfortably re-elected with more than 70% of the vote. The other ministers James Martin (The Lachlan), Henry Parkes (Kiama), James Byrnes (Parramatta) and Geoffrey Eagar (West Sydney) were re-elected unopposed.[2]
Mr E E Darvall was a bank clerk, the son of John Darvall, the former attorney general. This was the only occasion on which he stood for parliament.[3]
John Heuston was a burlesque candidate, apparently winning a £10 bet for nominating, but withdrew before the poll.
| Date | Event | |
|---|---|---|
| 22 January 1866 | Second Martin ministry appointed.[4] | |
| 23 January 1866 | Writ of election issued by the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly.[5] | |
| 5 February 1866 | Nominations at Singleton.[6] | |
| 8 February 1866 | Polling day.[7] | |
| 17 February 1866 | Return of writ |