SMILE OF SUCCESS: Bill Lancaster has emerged as a contender in the race for Griffith’s top job.
Bill Lancaster has emerged as the dark horse in Griffith's mayoral race, with more than 17 per cent of primary votes,
The 70-year-old has easily secured a second term as councillor and could still be the city's mayor if he polls well on preferences.
John Dal Broi and incumbent mayor Mike Neville were expected to be the frontrunners in the race for mayor but Mr Lancaster stormed into contention early and was less than 350 votes behind Mr Neville late last night.
Despite his proximity to the leaders, Mr Lancaster only gave himself a 5 per cent chance of taking the top job.
"I'm taking the position that I'm not going to win it although I do accept there is a possibility," he said.
"I ran for mayor to give people an alternative and that's the way it worked out.
"It looks like it has come down to three people and I am pleased to be one of them."
Mr Lancaster was confident he would be able to work with Mr Neville or Mr Dal Broi if they were successful.
"Whoever is in there will get my support," he said.
"I'm looking forward to the next four years. There are some things I would like to see happen but a lot of that will depend on the mayor and whether he accepts the cause or not."
Mr Lancaster was disappointed Doug Curran and first-time candidate Harnek Dhanoa had not polled better on primaries in the councillor ballot.
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