1866 Patrick's Plains colonial by-election

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. 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.

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.

John Heuston was a burlesque candidate, apparently winning a £10 bet for nominating, but withdrew before the poll.

Polling places
Singleton · Belford · Camberwell · Warkworth · Jerry's Plains · Broke

Result
Bowie Wilson was appointed Secretary for Lands in the second Martin ministry.