Bunbury Council hopefuls raise hands

A strong field of candidates is set to contest the Bunbury City Council local government election on October 17.

Nine people - including four sitting councillors - have already nominated to contest six positions and more candidates are expected to put their hands up before the Thursday 4pm deadline.

As of yesterday (Monday 7 September), the candidates were incumbent councillors Brendan Kelly, Neville McNeill, Murray Cook and Betty McCleary, as well as five residents including former mayor David Smith, Monique Warnock, Joel McGuinness, Findlay Osborn and Victor Van Neil.

Bunbury returning officer Michael Farren said he expected to receive more nominations today.

All nominees are posted in the council office foyer.

The election will also coincide with a referendum on the number of councillors.

Bunbury's John Sherwood is leading a campaign to oppose any reduction in councillor numbers, which he described as a "test of local democracy".

"Local government is the government closest to the people and any reduction in elected members will diminish the ability of people to be heard on important local issues," Mr Sherwood said.

"In a growing city like Bunbury, we cannot afford to have community representation at the decision-making table reduced."

Mayor Gary Brennan is among supporters of fewer councillors.