SIX candidates will be contesting the Federal seat of McEwen on election day, Saturday, August 21.
The draw for positions on the ballot paper took place at the Australian Electorate Commission’s office in Seymour on Friday afternoon.
Broadford resident Rob Mitchell (Labor) drew the favourable number 1 position on the ballot paper, while Liberal Party hope Cameron Caine drew number 4.
Australian Greens candidate Steve Meacher, from Toolangi, drew number 3.
He also stood for the Greens in 2007, when Fran Bailey (Liberal) was returned by 31 votes over Mr Mitchell after several prolonged counts and challenges.
Wallan real estate agent Robert Gordon is making another bid for Parliament, this time representing The Secular Party of Australia.
He drew fifth position on the ballot paper.
The other candidates are Nillumbik councillor Belinda Clarkson (Family First) and Mark Bini – a general manager – who represents the Liberal Democratic Party.
Cameron Caine, who was heavily involved with the Black Saturday fires at Kinglake, and follow-up recovery, is making his first attempt to be elected, with Ms Bailey retiring after a long political career in McEwen. Mr Caine stepped down as a police officer to contest the election.
Mr Mitchell, a former state MP, is making his second attempt to win McEwen, and was pleased to gain the number 1 position on the ballot paper.
The two major parties are making a concerted attempt to win McEwen, with political observers tipping the outcome will go down to distribution of preferences.
McEwen ballot positions:
1 – Mitchell (ALP).
2 – Bini (LDP).
3 – Meacher (Greens).
4 – Caine (Liberal).
5 – Gordon (Secular Party).
6 – Clarkson (Family First).
