In pole place for poll

By Tania Martin
MONBULK Liberal candidate Clive Larkman said scoring first position on the ballot paper for the upcoming State Government election was like winning the coin toss at a cricket match.
Meanwhile, Gembrook MP Tammy Lobato was not so lucky. Ms Lobato drew the sixth position on the seven-candidate ballot paper for Gembrook, while Liberal candidate for the seat, Simon Wildes took out third spot.
Mr Larkman said the ballot paper position doesn’t win the election but said it might win him a couple of extra votes.
While Monbulk MP James Merlino is second on the ballot paper he said it is a completely random drawn and he is not focusing on his position but is looking forward to election day.
The ballot paper also includes Carl Huybers of Family First, Joanne Stride who is standing for People Power and Greens candidate Robert Stephen.
Mr Larkman said although it was nice to win the luck of draw with his ballot placing, the people of Monbulk will vote for the person they think is right for the job.
He predicts it will be an even fight for the Monbulk seat and said Mr Merlino might have a slight edge as the incumbent of the electorate.
“I think I have a 50 per cent chance of winning and I am really enjoying the race,” he said.
Mr Merlino said the ballot draw has no real bearing on his election campaign and can’t wait to see the outcome in two weeks’ time.
“I am really enjoying the campaign and getting out there and talking to people,” he said.
“It’s a really exciting time and makes you proud to look at what you have achieved over the past four years and what challenges lie ahead.”
Mr Merlino predicts that the election will be close because of the many marginal seats across the region and he can’t wait to see the result.
“I love election day – it’s democracy at its best and as a candidate seeing the finish line in sight just keeps you going,” he said.