Rockhampton mayor may not be elected for weeks

The future of Rockhampton’s Mayoralty could remain undecided for another week, as the record-setting 17 candidates face an extended battle over preferences.

The future of Rockhampton’s Mayoralty could remain undecided for another week, with preferences unable to be allocated until enough postal votes are received.

So far, some 80 per cent of enrolled votes have been received and counted, with the ECQ unable to allocate preferences until the majority of postal votes are either received or the February 2 postal vote deadline is reached.

Despite preferences being optional in Local Government Elections, experts have previously predicted preferences could be the decider of the Rockhampton mayoral race.

Rockhampton bi-election after former Mayor Margaret Strelow resigned late last year Picture ABC Capricorn/Laura Myers

A record-setting 17 candidates enrolled in the by-election; it compares with the two nominations who registered in the March 2020 Local Government election.

Current frontrunners include veteran councillor Tony Williams (with around 25 per cent of votes), Russell Claus (at 16 per cent) and “accidental mayor” Chris Pineapple Hooper (12 per cent).

Rockhampton by-election favourite Chris “Pineapple” Hooper and his “flash” campaign vehicle. Picture: supplied

The by-election was sparked when long-time Mayor Margaret Strelow resigned late last year following misconduct findings.

The now-famous Mr Hooper would have assumed the role automatically – as second place getter in the March election – however the State Government rushed through legislative reforms to force the by-election.