McEwen ballot case adjourned

THE McEwen court saga ground to disappointing anti-climax in the Federal Court in Melbourne last week with a further adjournment.
Both McEwen Liberal MP Fran Bailey and Labor candidate Rob Mitchell were in court on Tuesday 17 June for what had been tipped to deliver a decision on the future of the electorate.
Following a hearing in May, both sides were given access to the 643 disputed ballot papers with the result of about 280 disputed ballot papers to be ruled on by Justice Richard Tracey.
Justice Tracey had indicated then that he was looking to finalise the matter at the June sitting, stating he would extend sitting hours if necessary, but instead agreed to allow further time for written submissions.
He also introduced an additional six ballot papers where he said he had concerns as to the decision of the Australian Electoral Officer.
Justice Tracey said both parties would have access to the six papers under supervision with written submissions to be lodged by Monday (23 June).
“I will give this matter such priority as I am able with a view to having completed the task if not by the end of next week, then by early the following week,” he said.
Speaking outside the court, Mr Mitchell said he was happy with the way the case was proceeding but disappointed with yet another delay.
“After six or seven months you would have thought that apart from the six papers brought up by the judge today, everything that could have been said could have been said today.”
Ms Bailey has declined to speak on the matter.