All the numbers
Most candidate campaign budgets this year have been fairly modest — with one exception. Incumbent Arrabri Ward councillor Tony Dib states in his Weekly survey that his self-funded campaign budget is about $10,000. For most of the other candidates who answered the question, the budget ranged between $500 and $2000.
Going solo
Three-quarters of candidates who responded to the survey are independents with no party affiliation. Wyreena ward candidates Alan Clarkson and Alistair McInnes are Australian Labor Party members, as is Tony Dib. Current councillor Nora Lamont and fellow Mullum candidate Bentleigh Gibson are Liberal Party members. Monash University senior political lecturer Nick Economou said most candidates steered clear from affiliation with major parties. "There's a very long history of parties not being involved in local politics because it can work against electoral interests," he said.
Counting down
Don't forget, all postal votes must be returned by 6pm this Friday, ready for counting this weekend. Voting is compulsory for most people on the electoral roll but optional for those over the age of 70 or those who own a property in Maroondah and live outside the region. Those who fail to vote will be fined. Computer counting starts on Sunday and the official results will be out by 10am Monday morning. For more information on how to vote, go to vec.vic.gov.au