By Mitchell Clarke
The chaotic campaigning in the lead up to the Cardinia Shire Council election is due to wrap up this week, but voters won’t get to meet their new council for some time yet.
Most enrolled voters would have already received and returned their ballot packs, but those yet to narrow down a favourite only have until Friday 23 October.
Locals must ensure their vote has been sent off in the mail or has been delivered in person to the election office at the James Bathe Recreation Reserve on Caversham Drive, Pakenham before 6pm that day.
Victorian Electoral Commissioner Warwick Gately urged voters to get their picks in before it’s too late.
“Local councils make all kinds of decisions for their communities, so it’s important that you exercise your right to vote,” Mr Gately said.
“Your vote will help decide who will be representing you at the local level for the next four years.”
Voters who still haven’t received their ballot pack should contact their election office to arrange a replacement as soon as possible.
A record number of 41 candidates are vying for a spot in one of the nine Cardinia Shire single wards.
But those waiting on with baited breath won’t be with answers until Friday 13 November, when results are officially declared.
Voting is compulsory for voters who were on the state roll for this general election at 4pm Friday 28 August and council-enrolled voters are encouraged to vote. State-enrolled voters who don’t vote may be fined.
