The Family First Party yesterday confirmed it would field a candidate but that still leaves only four men and women who have declared their interest in the safest Coalition seat in the country.

Incumbent John Forrest from The Nationals is facing his seventh election and will stand against Bob Scates from the ALP and Helen Healy from the Greens.

The official declaration of candidates will be made today with a ballot draw at noon.

Returning officer Pal Eklom said unlike local government elections, he was unable to comment on people nominating for the seat until today’s close of nominations and ballot draw.

Ms Healy only announced her interest a week ago and is little known in areas outside Mildura, a crucial factor in such a large electorate which takes in Horsham. Mr Scates, from the Wimmera town of Murtoa, has declared his hand late, and is little known in the Mildura area.

For more of this story, purchase your copy of Friday’s Sunraysia Daily 30/07/2010.