It is likely that Labor will have some competition for the formet Premier David Bartlett’s seat of Denison, once he tenders his resignation.
Helen Burnet, Greens Alderman and Hobart’s Deputy Lord Mayor, is considering contesting the recount.
Speculation suggests that Labor’s 5th candidate, Madelaine Ogilvie would be a shoe-in, but I think that it is certainly worth being considered in the mix.
I think given the position took into the election, it may be that the traditional Labor vote is not as disciplined as usual, and that out of any recent election this could be an extraordinary outcome.
Whilst it may be a slim chance, I would think that it would be better to make it a competition, than for Labor to be provided the seat with no challenge.
Ms Burnet’s primary vote of 3142 was considerably higher than Ms Ogilvie’s 608 votes. This vote is not considered in the recount unfortunately.
Ms Burnet has served 6 years on Hobart City Council and was elected Deputy Lord Mayor in October 2009. It was reported last week that she would run for Lord Mayor in the October elections.
I enjoy my role on Council but if the opportunity to serve the community at the state level arose, then I believe that I would bring to that job plenty of skill and knowledge.
