Eight candidates each to contest local seats

An independent candidate has taken top spot on the ballot paper for election day in Eden-Monaro.

Andrew Thaler from Nimmitabel was the first name drawn out by a blindfolded AEC official at the Ballot Draw.

Liberal candidate Jo van der Plaat will appear at number four and current sitting MP Kristy McBain from Labor in sixth spot.

In Gilmore the government’s Fiona Phillips, who holds the seat by 0.2 percent, will hold top place.

Independent Kate Dezarnaulds scored the second place with Liberal opponent Andrew Constance down at six.