With just a few days to go before voting closes, voters in Cowie Ward are being reminded to return their completed ballot papers before Friday's deadline.

Voting closes at 6.00pm on Friday, 5 March and all votes must reach the Returning Officer by this time or they will not be counted.

"Time is running out to vote in this by-election." said Eeon Macaulay, Returning Officer. "Voters need to post their completed ballot paper back as soon as possible or deliver their ballot paper to the election office in person."

The election office is located at 60 Little Malop Street, Geelong (entry via Police Lane).

Voting is compulsory for all residents under 70 who were on the voters roll for Cowie Ward at 4.00pm on Monday, 8 January. This includes homeowners and tenants. Enrolled residents who fail to vote may be fined.

Ballot packs were mailed to voters from Tuesday, 16 February 2010. Anyone who has not received a ballot pack can obtain a replacement pack at the election office up until 6.00pm on Friday, 5 March.

The councillor elected at the by-election will represent Cowie Ward until the next council elections in November 2012.

- ENDS -

Media information:
Sarah Jones
Communication Officer
Victorian Electoral Commission
9299 0739
sarah.jones@vec.vic.gov.au
www.vec.vic.gov.au/Geelonghome.html