Ballot draw goes Libs’ way

Sydney Liberal Shayne Mallard has snared poll position on the mayoral ballot paper. First place on the ballot is coveted by candidates, as it usually means some additional “donkey” votes.

Five candidates are vying for Clover Moore?s job, including independent Ormond McDermott, while 39 candidates are contesting the nine council seats in the September 13 poll.

Of the major parties, Labor has the largest team of contenders, with 10 candidates on its ticket.

NSW electoral commissioner Colin Barry said after last week’s draw: “With just one month until polling day, candidates will be busy campaigning, while election officials will begin the important task of organising pre-poll and postal voting, particularly because there is no absentee voting at council elections.”