Casey: Candidates tip a tight contest, with smaller parties proving popular

Casey is traditionally a battle between the two big parties in Australian politics. But out in the suburbs, the smaller parties are sensing a change.

United Australia Party's James Unkles, bringing extra colour to Anthony Bellve's campaign on election night at Chirnside Park Primary School during the 2022 federal election on May 21

As the sun set over the Yarra Ranges on Saturday night, Casey candidates campaigned into the evening chill, making the most of their last opportunity to win voters over.

Throughout the seat of Casey, voting booths were busy on the final day of polling.

United Australia Party was pulling out all stops, with James Unkles campaigning for Anthony Bellve at the Chirnside Park Primary School booth as dusk descended.

Dressed to impress in a rainbow coat, Mr Unkles was too apprehensive to suggest which way the result would fall, but noted “the large turnout” this election.

“It will definitely be a difficult election to call across the board, not just in Casey,” Mr Unkles said.

“Australians are crying out for change, and I strongly believe the results tonight will reflect that.”

Demonstrating the engagement in this election a volunteer told Leader keen voters inundated an understaffed booth in Casey, where AEC staff were asking voters to attend other voting booths to reduce wait times.

The seat is held by Liberal MP Tony Smith, who is not recontesting the election, with Aaron Violi hoping to keep the seat with the Libs against main contender Bill Brindle from Labor.

One Nation candidate for Casey, Paul Murphy, said the smaller parties were proving more popular than ever.

One Nation candidate for Casey, Paul Murphy, braving the cold night air to get last minute voters over the line at Chirnside Park Primary School during the 2022 federal election on May 21.

“I have noticed the growing popularity in both smaller parties and our local independents, I think that shows that our community is looking for something different,” he said.

After two weeks of strong campaigning, Mr Murphy was happy to be wrapping up his campaign.

“I’m a tradie, so I’m used to physical labour,” Mr Murphy said.

“This campaign has tested me on an emotional level. I’m excited to turn off my alarms for tomorrow morning that’s for sure.”

Clare Ferres Miles, a popular independent in Casey, was also out campaigning at the Chirnside Primary School booth.

“This campaign has been very interesting for me, and it’s a testament to the diversity of Casey as an electorate,” she said.

“For that reason I think it’s hard to tell who will take it out tonight.”