SOME familiar faces and a few newcomers have put their hands up for a spot on Yarra Ranges Council.
The Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC) last week revealed all candidates for the 27 October local government elections.
There’s one spot up for grabs in each of the shire’s nine wards and competition will be fierce.
Incumbent Ryrie Ward representative Jeanette McCrae is stepping aside after several terms in the position.
Michael Matthews, David Hill and Les King are vying for the vacancy following unsuccessful tilts for the role in 2008.
Healesville Interchurch Community Care president Margaret Blair has also nominated.
Returning candidate Jim Child has again thrown his hat into the ring for O’Shannassy Ward, which Chris Templer has left vacant, alongside Kim Fuhrmann and Robert Hay.
Billanook Ward, which takes in Wandin North, is the most hotly-contested seat with 10 candidates including incumbent councillor Tim Heenan.
Lawrence Mobsby and Louise Tesoriero have nominated after failing to oust Mr Heenan in 2008.
Yarra Ranges Athletics vice president Brendan Dixon, Yarra Valley Italian Cultural Group member Maria McCarthy, Greg Carrick, nurseryman Clive Larkman, Brian Phillips, Peter Brasier, and Don Di Battista are also putting up their hands.
Chandler Ward incumbent and current mayor Graham Warren will step aside, leaving Silvan paramedic and road safety campaigner Jason Callanan, CFA stalwart and former councillor John Nieman, and Sue McMurdie to contest the seat.
CANDIDATES
O’Shannassy Ward: Jim Child, Kim Fuhrmann, Robert Hay.
Ryrie Ward: Michael Matthews, David Hill, Margaret Blair, Les King.
Billanook Ward: Lawrence Irwin Mobsby, Brendan Dixon, Peter Brasier, Don Di Battista, Maria McCarthy, Louise Tesoriero, Greg Carrick, Clive Larkman, Tim Heenan, Brian Phillips.
Chandler Ward: Jason Callanan, John Nieman, Sue McMurdie.
