SIX candidates will contest the federal seat of Richmond after surprise candidate John Ordish representing the Christian Democratic Party (Fred Nile Group) put his hand up at the last minute.
Mr Ordish’s name will be placed in the coveted number top spot on the ballot ticket after his name was pulled out of the hat first in the draw by Australian Electoral Commission staff last Friday.
He will be followed on the ballot, in order of appearance, by Independent Kevin Skinner, Matthew Fraser (Nationals), Justine Elliot (Labor), Dawn Walker (Greens) and Philip Allen (Palmer United Party).
The candidates are among a record 1717 candidates to contest the 7 September poll across Australia, representing a 43 per cent increase on the last federal election in 2010.
A meet the candidates forum will be held at Banora Point Community Centre on Monday, August 26 from 7-10pm.The non-partisan forum is being hosted by the Banora Point and District Residents’ Association.
It is the only forum all candidates will be available to address the public in the Tweed.
Phone Pat Tate on 07 5524 2957.
