Pre-election polling for the Kiama state by-election, set for Saturday, September 13, kicked off last Saturday with early voting underway at three venues in the electorate.

The historic all-female frontrunner race, triggered by the resignation of former MP Gareth Ward after his sexual assault convictions, features 13 candidates vying for the marginal seat.

Kiama's Uniting Church on Saturday was brimming with enthusiastic voters and candidates.

TAB odds for McInerney are at $1.05, ahead of Liberal candidate Serena Copley at $9 and independents at longer odds.

An online Bugle poll reflects strong community engagement, though results remain fluid as early voting continues.

The 2023 election saw Ward edge out McInerney by fewer than 100 votes, but Labor now senses an opportunity to flip the seat.

McInerney, a Kiama local, campaigns on infrastructure and family services, bolstered by NSW Premier Chris Minns’ frequent appearances - seven since August 14.

Critics, like Copley, question if McInerney’s voice is overshadowed, noting her refusal of a head-to-head debate in favour of multi-candidate forums.

McInerney insists her community engagement stands on its own.

The field is diverse: Copley, a Shoalhaven councillor, pushes Liberal values despite a weak 2023 showing (12.03%) from their previous candidate.

"It's so great to be here at the Uniting Church in Kiama today for early voting in the Kiama by-election," she told The Bugle.

"The sun is shining, the people are out. I'm very happy to be here and I'm getting great support so it's absolutely wonderful to be part of the process."

The Greens’ Dr. Tonia Gray, first place on the ballot after the draw recently, emphasises environmental priorities.

Independent Kate Dezarnaulds, a small business owner, campaigns on integrity and innovation.

Andrew Thaler, a controversial independent, stirs debate with anti-establishment rhetoric, criticising “woke agendas” and public sector waste. His recent Minnamurra forum outburst and past council suspensions have drawn rebukes from frontrunners.

Serena Copley with Kiama Councillor Mike Cains. Photo: The Bugle

The other candidates include Ken Davis (Sustainable Australia), Felix Nelson (Shooters, Fishers and Farmers), Roger Woodward (Independent), Don Fuggle (Legalise Cannabis Party), Lisa Cotton (Independent), Cyrille Jeufo Keuheu (Independent), Joshua Beer (Libertarian Party) and Ellie Robertson (Animal Justice Party).

With Labor holding a slim majority in the NSW Legislative Assembly, the by-election is crucial for the Government's chances of getting legislation through.