Candidate for the Riverina James Gooden has had his campaign for the upcoming election hindered by a leaking pipe. Photo: Supplied.
An Independent federal election candidate for the seat of Riverina has been left frustrated after a leaking pipe has resulted in his campaign office being unintentionally blocked by large black sheets.
James Gooden’s campaign office reported the leaking pipe outside its 151 Baylis Street address and has since stated that it appreciated Wagga Wagga City Council’s (WWCC) quick action in fixing the pipe.
However, fencing with black plastic boarding the area has left Mr Gooden and his team feeling as if their campaign has been inadvertently hidden from public sight.
“We’re grateful the problem is being addressed,” Mr Gooden said.
“But we’ve had a number of people call to say they drove straight past and didn’t realise the office was even here. For a campaign built on accessibility and local connection, that’s a bit of a blow.
“We’re working with what we’ve got … [and] we’re looking at the possibility of placing a few corflutes on the fence to help people find us — but of course, that would be subject to discussions with Wagga Wagga City Council and the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) to ensure all rules are being followed.”
The team has contacted council to explore whether there’s a way to improve visibility while still respecting safety protocols.
“In the meantime, we’re here, we’re open, and we’re ready to listen — even if we’re currently a bit harder to spot.”
WWCC has confirmed the black sheets will remain outside Mr Gooden’s office until up to two weeks before the election (at least until 17 April).
“Council crews are working to resolve an issue with a leak in the irrigation system near one of the main street trees located near 151 Baylis Street. During the initial investigations into the leak, it was discovered that an electrical pit needs to be replaced,” a council spokesperson said.
“As part of the repair works, council has removed the surrounding concrete and pavers to access the pipes and electrical pit and will be undertaking further excavation to repair and replace the pipe and electrical pit, and to remove the tree roots.
“Once the repairs have been completed, the concrete will be reinstated, and the pavers replaced. A barrier has been installed around the site as a safety measure for pedestrians while this work is carried out.
“The barrier will be removed once the works have been completed and the concrete has cured, which is anticipated to be by Thursday 17 April, weather permitting.”
Mr Gooden’s campaign office remains open in the lead up to the 3 May federal election and his website can be located here.
