Forty candidates are in the race for nine seats on Melton council at next month’s local government elections.
Just over 70 candidates stood at the previous election.
Cambridge ward councillor Nola Dunn will not be contesting her seat, but 14 others have put up their hands and are vying for one of three vacancies in the ward, which takes in Melton’s eastern corridor.
There are 10 candidates for the Watts ward, which includes Diggers Rest, Toolern Vale, Hillside and Taylors Hill, and 16 for Coburns ward. Following the Victorian Electoral Commission’s (VEC’s) review of local government electoral boundaries, there will be two extra councillors for the next four years.
Meanwhile, Moorabool council’s Tom Sullivan has been guaranteed to retain his seat on council, after the VEC revealed last week he was the only person contesting the West Moorabool ward, which takes in Lal Lal, Elaine, Mt Egerton and Yendon.
There are 12 candidates, including three women, running for another six vacancies on Moorabool council. East Moorabool ward councillor John Spain has pulled out of the race.
Municipal Association of Victoria chief executive Rob Spence said he was pleased with the number of candidates statewide ready to join the election race.
“The high number of candidates shows that many passionate residents are ready to take on an influential role in their communities,” Mr Spence said.
“Putting your hand up to become an influential voice of a community can be a daunting first step in the election process, yet it’s clear that many are ready to embrace the challenges and rewards of being a councillor.”
Local councils’ caretaker period started on Wednesday, September 22, meaning councils are prohibited from printing, publishing and distributing material that could affect voting. Councils also cannot make inappropriate or significant decisions or use resources to aid candidates.
Melton council chief executive Kel Tori encouraged candidates to contact the VEC for advice and visit the council website for information about policies and meetings.
“The strong number of candidates indicates a genuine interest in local government and the important role it plays in the life of our community,” Mr Tori said.
The local government elections are on Saturday, October 22. For information about the election, or candidates, visit vec.vic.gov.au
