Division 5 Ross Peddlesden and Greg Barnes

UPDATE 9.52PM: CR Greg Barnes is in a good position to return to council with 66.28% of votes in his favour for Division 5.

Earlier tonight, Cr Barnes told the NewsMail how much he loved his position and being there for the coastal communities.

"I just love it. I am passionate about the area and I get a real kick out of seeing things progress here. It makes me feel great, that might sound corny but it is true," he said.

Ross Peddlesden, the only opposing candidate in Division 5, is currently at 33.72%.

UPDATE 8.30PM: Greg Barnes is in the lead spot for Division 5 with 66.28% after the first booth of 12 counted.

Ross Peddlesden is currently at 33.72%.

DIVISION 5 candidates, Ross Peddlesden and Cr Greg Barnes have been working the polling booths today in the lead up to the election outcome.

Ross Peddlesden
Ross Peddlesden said, even though he was up against sitting councillor Greg Barnes, he was optimistic that he had done all he could today to secure votes.

"I have had a lovely day at the polling booths meeting people and making sure everyone was okay," he said.

"I think personal touch is important when it comes to this."

Mr Peddlesden said he was in a positive frame of mind in the lead up to the counting of the votes.
"Taking on a sitting councillor who has had 16 years to entrench himself into the community has been a challenge but I knew that when I decided to do this," he said.

"Tonight, I am having my friends and family at my place for pizza and red wine. It has been a good day."



Greg Barnes
Cr Greg Barnes said he has had a positive day out on the polling booth trail.

"It's been going pretty well. Good feedback and a good response from the community," he said.

Cr Barnes said he had been in the council game for 16 years because of his passion for the job.

"I just love it. I am passionate about the area and I get a real kick out of seeing things progress here. It makes me feel great, that might sound corny but it is true," he said.

Cr Barnes said he was looking forward to a drink as soon as counting begins tonight.