Local council elections

NSW Voters: Making Democracy Deliciously Chaotic!

From voting sausages to chaotic candidates, here's the latest scoop on the NSW local council elections!

As New South Wales gears up for the 2024 Local Government Elections, voters are being beckoned to the polls, with anticipation buzzing louder than a barbecue at a backyard party! Voters from Central Coast, Wingecarribee Shire, and Balranald Shire are thrilled to once again elect their councillors democratically. After a tumultuous election period filled with chaos and confusion, voters are finally ready to head down to their local booths, sausages in hand, to make their mark!

The excitement is palpable as record numbers are reported. Over 1.3 million Aussies cast their votes early, showing a strong desire for engagement in this round of local governance. Yet, not all is smooth sailing. Reports indicate some hiccups, with 140 candidates missing from ballots across 16 councils due to an error, and 14 councils finding themselves uncontested because of a lack of nominees. Talk about a wild ride! Who knew that democracy could be as unpredictable as a kangaroo on roller skates?

Long lines and haphazard voting booths are to be expected, as Clover Moore and other candidates strive to rally support. Whether it’s a classic democracy sausage sizzle or the cringe-worthy corflute vandalism, residents are encouraged to keep their cameras ready and phones buzzing with updates. It’s all happening during this pivotal election season, and you certainly don't want to miss the juicy gossip from your local polling station!

In Lismore, residents have their eyes on who will become their next mayor, with candidates like Steve Krieg, Adam Guise, and Jasmine Knight-Smith vying for votes at the busy booths. The polls open until 6 pm mean there’s still time to partake in the democratic extravaganza! So grab your friends, your favorite snack, and maybe a foldable chair – it’s time to make democracy deliciously chaotic!

Fun fact #1: Did you know that the tradition of the "democracy sausage" in Australia originated around the 1990s? It's become an iconic staple of the voting experience!

Fun fact #2: New South Wales is home to approximately 128 elected councils, ensuring local decisions are made by the people, for the people! What’s more democratic than that?