Nominations have closed for the Douglas Shire Council elections on March 19 and the real work now begins as the candidates get into campaign mode.

And the 11th-hour decision by Port Douglas resident Roy Weavers to challenge the incumbent Julia Leu for Mayor has added much-needed spice to the election.

Up until yesterday it looked as though Ms Leu would have a clear run and be returned unopposed. By turning this into a two-horse race, Weavers has provided the electorate with a second option. This is always healthy in a democratic society and presents voters with more to think about.

There are 11 candidates competing for the four Councillor positions, compared to the 15 who ran in the 2013 election.

They are: Paul Snelgrove (Daintree), David Carey (Shannonvale), Donna Graham (Port Douglas), Michael Kerr (Port Douglas), Terry Melchert (Mossman), Abigail Noli (Mossman), Bruce Clarke (Cooya Beach), Roy Zammataro (Mossman), Melinda Cox (Bamboo), Peter McKeown (Mossman) and Vivienne Ruffles (Port Douglas).

Over the next few days one suspects we’ll start to learn more about each of the candidates and what they stand for. They will also get the opportunity to address voters at two Town Hall meetings, being organised by the Douglas Shire Chamber of Commerce.

March 19 is not that far off. Let the show begin!