Moreton Bay Division 4 candidate Jodie Shipway holds a big lead over her rivals at the half way point

New Division 4 councillor all but official as count puts Jodie Shipway well ahead at the halfway mark.

Moreton Bay Council Division 4 candidate Jodie Shipway will likely be elected to council.

DIVISION 4 frontrunner Jodie Shipway says she is confident of being elected to take over the helm from retiring councillor Julie Greer.

Ms Shipway was one of three candidates for the Moreton Bay seat, along with Karen Haddock and John Schembri.

With 48 per cent of the vote counted, Ms Shipway has 46.46 per cent of the vote.

Ms Haddock is 2nd at 29.9 per cent and Mr Schembri 3rd with 23.64 per cent.

If the trend continues, Ms Shipway will be the councillor for Division 4.

“With just under 50 per cent of the votes counted I’m holding a decent lead and feeling confident,” Ms Shipway said.

“I’m blown away by the messages and calls of support, THANK YOU!

“When I have the official word I will certainly let the world know.

“In the meantime I’d like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank my family, friends and volunteers and wish everyone well during this difficult time we all find ourselves in.

“Remember to check in on each other and know that I’m always here for a chat if you need too.”

Ms Haddock all but conceded defeat yesterday, posting on her Facebook page: “Looks like yours truly is a shot duck but life goes on.”

“There’s still 70 per cent of votes to count but if yesterdays booths are any indication to what pre poll and postal votes are, then I’d say your new councillor is not going to be me.

“I will say this, whoever does get the honour to serve residents will need to hit the ground running.

“We are in a crisis, like nothing we have seen in recent times.

To be the glue that holds the community together will take a very steady hand and ability to dig deep.”

Mr Schembri too was not optimistic of a comeback in the polls.

“Unfortunately, it’s not looking good for me at this stage,” he posted on his page today.

“I’ll continue to remain positive and will push on regardless.

“Thank you to all who voted for me, sent me messages of support and wished me well.”

Should Ms Shipway go on and win the seat, she will be just the second person to represent Division 4 in Moreton Bay Council, with Cr Greer holding the seat since amalgamation in 2008.