Oddie is on the hunt for the polling booth with the best delicacy on Saturday, as Shepparton heads to the polls for the second time in six months.
May’s Federal Election produced a distinct lack of democracy delights — of the edible kind, that is — and Oddie is hopeful that he will be able to procure more wares at the state election voting centres.
But what is the best kind of snack to soothe the masses?
Do you opt for a sizzling sausage, knowing that the time commitment will be a large one but the reward may be even greater?
Or do you look to the baked and breaded goods to provide easy-to-manage munchies for all and sundry?
It is a decision many primary school principals and town hall proprietors across the state are faced with as we speak — and Oddie does not have the answer.
If you know of any planned democracy barbecues or bake sales — or see any in the wild on Saturday — please let Oddie know at editor@sheppnews.com.au and he’ll be sure to update The News’ live blog audience.
Speaking of the election
Oddie notes that accommodations have been made for voters who are COVID-positive on Saturday and were unable to vote early or via a postal submission.
A drive-through voting centre — singular — has been stood-up at 149 Barries Rd, Melton West, and is open from 9am to 5pm on Friday and 8am to 6pm on Saturday.
Oddie has checked with the News editor — who hails from that neck of the woods — and it is comfortably a cool two hours and 20 minutes’ drive to that location from Shepparton, pending traffic and potholes, of course.
With no isolation requirements in place, those voters who are COVID positive are able to cast their democratic decision wherever they like, but Oddie understands why many would feel uncomfortable squashing into the tight spaces of polling centres and potentially spreading illness.
One drive-through for the entire state certainly feels unders.
Lending a hand
Members of the local constabulary were photographed this week lending a helping hand to an unfortunate driver needing a tyre change.
An avid Oddie reader sent in this photo of two police officers providing safety measures and elbow grease for the driver.