2 December 2008

The NSW Electoral Commission has declared results in three local government by-elections held on Saturday, 29 November.

A total of five candidates have been elected to the Warren Shire, Bland Shire or Wellington Council, bringing the 2008 local government election campaign to a close.

The following candidates have been elected:

Warren Shire (A Ward): Sinclair STEELE

Wellington Council: David GRANT & Lisa AUSTIN

Bland Shire: Barry CARNELL & Andrew BUTTENSHAW

The candidates will assume office at their next council meeting and will serve the remainder of a four year term.

The NSWEC conducted more than 330 elections, referendums and polls for local councils.

“Council elections are far more complex than a state election because of the sheer number of candidates who stand,” said NSW Electoral Commissioner Colin Barry.

“This year we had more than 4,500 candidates run for office in 148 council areas compared to 890 candidates who stood in 93 seats and the Upper House at the 2007 State election.

“The success of the local government elections is partly due to the hard work of more than 11,500 casual election officials who worked tirelessly across the State before and after polling day.

“Through their professionalism, and that of NSWEC full time staff, 1344 councillors and 28 mayors were elected to office through an impartial process that upholds democracy in local communities.”


Media Contact:  Adrian Kerr, NSW Electoral Commission
(02) 9290 5954  adrian.kerr@elections.nsw.gov.au