This month’s election on March 28 will see a change of boundary’s in the seat of Orange which traditionally included Wellington and Mudgee, two centres now included in the Dubbo electorate.

The seat of Orange now takes in Parkes and Forbes, however incumbent Andrew Gee says the key to securing votes in that area requires a building of relationships.

“It is all about gaining the trust of people,” he said.

If Mr Gee is successfully returned it will mean the blue ribbon Nationals seat will have been held by the party - formerly known as the Country Party - for 70 years.

However, Labor candidate Bernard Fitzsimon says voters in the electorate are disgruntled about cuts to TAFE, privatisation of the electricity poles and wires and job losses in the area.

“I’m very concerned the money from the electricity sell off will not see us benefit out here but will go straight into infrastructure for Sydney,” he said.

Mr Gee feels satisfied he has “fought the good fight” in his battle with his Liberal colleagues last year by taking a stand to oppose the sell off of the state’s poles and wire.

“The result is democracy in action,” he said.

Ms Bicknell said her major concerns revolve around water security and more support for domestic violence victims.

She said although Orange has had a support program in place for several years for victims, statewide statistics prove the Going Home and Staying Home program is not working and more needs to be done to help people escape violent domestic situations.

Mr Gee said he believes the key to increasing Orange’s economic strength is to build on the city’s excellent health services.

“We have 130 specialists here in Orange - many communities struggle to get just one,” he said.

Christian Democrats leader Fred Nile said despite a visit to Orange recently he was not able to secure a local candidate to stand.

Mr Gee said the nomination of two paper candidates from outside Orange -  representing the No Land Tax and Christian Democrats - was probably to enhance their party’s presence in the State election.

No Land Tax candidate Juan Fernandez did not attend yesterday’s ballot and could not be contacted for comment.