No, it’s not the worst possible outcome at the end of an eight-week election campaign, just staff at Australia’s Antarctic bases having their say.
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The remote polling places are part of the AEC, or the Australian Electoral Commission’s, job of making sure everyone can cast their ballot, no matter where they are.
“The AEC appoints an Antarctic Returning Officer and an assistant at each station,” AEC Tasmanian returning officer, David Molnar said.
Lesley Eccles is a chef working at one of the Australian Antarctic bases.
Normally located in Brisbane, it’s her fourth trip to the southernmost continent but the first time she’s had to vote there.
“It is very difficult to stay in touch with what is happening with the election,” Ms Eccles said.
“We will see the results after the fact on the internet or daily newspaper that we print.”
It’s the job of the returning officers to get results back to the mainland where they are sent on to the electors’ home division as no one can be registered in Antarctica.
Alistair Finlay
Based at The Advocate in Devonport, Tasmania. General reporter with a passion for local and community news. Fan of Hawthorn, Edmonton Oilers and Movistar pro-cycling team. Good knowledge on health, education and local government. Got an event planned, something happen you think we should know about? Contact me at alistair.finlay@fairfaxmedia.com.au
Based at The Advocate in Devonport, Tasmania. General reporter with a passion for local and community news. Fan of Hawthorn, Edmonton Oilers and Movistar pro-cycling team. Good knowledge on health, education and local government. Got an event planned, something happen you think we should know about? Contact me at alistair.finlay@fairfaxmedia.com.au
