Bugle Newsroom
12 August 2025, 6:00 AM
With the Kiama state electorate headed to the polls on 13 September for a by-election following Gareth Ward's resignation, local candidates and political parties are rushing to work out who will be on the ballot paper.
We want to know who you think should be nominating for the by-election.
On the Labor side, Katelin McInerney - who narrowly lost last time - is considered a frontrunner while local Councillor Imogen Draisma is another name which has been mentioned in local circles as a potential option.
For the Liberals, Serena Copley appears to be the preferred candidate after fellow former Shoalhaven Councillor Paul Ell and Kiama Councillor Mike Cains ruled themselves out.
Kiama Deputy Mayor Melissa Matters is another local pollie who has been mentioned as someone who could be the next state member as an independent while Tonia Gray appears set to be The Greens' choice.
Berry businesswoman Kate Dezarnaulds, who contested the federal seat of Gilmore earlier this year, is set to run as a Community Independent candidate.
Have your say in our poll of the candidates.
If you think there's someone else who should be in the running, let us know by emailing [email protected].
You can also let us know which party you are leaning towards or whether you are still undecided?
NEWS