There’s an old Melbourne saying, “I’ll meet you under the clocks at Flinders St Station”, that’s become part of the city’s lexicon.
But a meeting on the steps of another Melbourne landmark a few weeks ago could have turned this city council election on its head.
Lord mayor candidates Arron Wood, Labor’s Phil Reed and independent Jamal Hakim all gathered outside the Regent Theatre on Collins St to voice their united protest over Lord Mayor Nick Reece’s policy to sell council’s 51 per cent share of the building.
A convenient meeting of minds perhaps, or a time to foster relationships.
Either way, fast-forward to yesterday and Labor aligns with Wood and shuns Reece – a party comrade from way back.
In 2020, Labor got 9.45 per cent of the primary vote, so its chunk of the vote is vital.
As is the Greens, who got 16.7 per cent last time. Since then the resident population has grown, with the party’s hold on state and federal seats of Melbourne now rock solid.
Regent discontent aside, the fact that Reece has a Liberal, Roshena Campbell, as his running mate won’t have helped him with the local Labor faithful.
Reece will at least get the votes of Anthony Koutoufides – a real wildcard factor – and a certain Anthony van der Craats, who is top of the ballot paper so is assured donkey votes.
A Labor Party member, van der Craats, is seen to be a feeder candidate for Reece.
Strange though that van der Craats’ ticket is called Rip Up the Bike Lanes when they were installed on Reece’s watch.
But political necessity will always triumph when votes are to be had.
Wood’s deal with the Greens may get him over the line but it risks alienating moderate voters concerned at the Greens’ more radical activity.
On face value, Wood would appear to be the favourite, but such is the lottery that is the preference system, don’t be surprised if a Steven Bradburystyle candidate rolls over the top of the high-profile contenders.