Early voting kicks off in Alice Springs with new candidates
NEARLY 1000 Central Australia voters were coaxed out into the streets on a chilly morning to cast their vote in the election on Monday
Alice Springs
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NEARLY 1000 Central Australia voters were coaxed out into the streets on a chilly morning to cast their vote in the election on Monday.
Some voters headed out early to get to work on time while others cast their ballot early to get voting out of the way.
In Alice Springs, 208 voters turned out in Braitling and 211 in Araluen.
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In Barkly, 296 voted, 51 in Gwoja and 161 in Namatjira, according to figures from the NT Electoral Commission.
Long-time Territorian Paul Salotti was one of the first people to cast his vote, travelling to the Top End.
“I’ve been travelling and camping for the last two weeks,” he said.
“I’m doing early voting because I won’t see another polling booth for a long time.”
“Early voting is extremely convenient and a lot of people can head to work on time after it. Without early voting it would probably be a disaster for a lot of people, and I’d probably end up with a fine.”
Political newcomer Kim Hopper, who is running as an independent in the seat of Braitling, said it was an exciting new experience for her.
“Early voting gives people an opportunity to do it in their own time, and it’s easier to have a chat to candidates compared to the rush of election day.”
Labor candidate for the seat of Namatjira Sheralee Taylor said it felt good for voting to finally start.
“It’s important people get out and vote, regardless of where you are, so it’s great we do remote polling.’’
CLP candidate for Araluen Damien Ryan, also a political first-timer, said he was happy to see democracy in action.
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