Nominations will open on Thursday, 28 January for the position of Councillor, Cowie Ward, within the Greater Geelong City Council.

The vacancy arose following the disqualification of David Saunderson from Council in November last year.

Returning Officer, Eeon Macaulay, said: "Anyone interested in representing their local community is encouraged to nominate; however, prospective candidates will need to act quickly to ensure that they don't miss out on lodging their nomination."

he Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC) is running an information session for anyone considering standing. It will take place at 7.00pm on Thursday, 28 January at Geelong City Hall, 30 Gheringhap Street (entry via Little Malop Street). Nomination forms and other electoral information will be available at the session.

Prospective candidates are encouraged to complete their nomination form online at www.vec.vic.gov.au before lodging it with the Returning Officer. Nomination forms can be lodged, by appointment only, at the Election Office, 60 Little Malop Street, Geelong from Thursday, 28 January to Monday, 1 February. Prospective candidates should call 0408 312 488 for an appointment.

Nominations may also be lodged without appointment between 9.00am and 12.00 noon on Tuesday, 2 February at the Election Office.

All nomination forms must be correctly completed, include a deposit of $250 and be lodged with the Returning Officer by noon on Tuesday, 2 February. Late nominations cannot be accepted.

The Cowie Ward by-election will be conducted entirely by post. Ballot papers and voting information will be mailed to all eligible voters from Tuesday, 16 February.

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Media enquiries:
Sue Lang
Communication, Education and Research Branch
Victorian Electoral Commission
Phone: 9299 0730
Email: sue.lang@vec.vic.gov.au