The nomination period for the Central Goldfields Shire election has closed, with one ward already declared uncontested.

A total 16 candidates have put their hat in the ring for the election where seven positions are available.

The Paddys Ranges Ward only attracted one candidate however, in Chris Meddows-Taylor, meaning he will be declared as the councillor on or after election day (Friday, October 23), according to the Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC).

In ballot paper order, the Flynn Ward (one vacancy) Liesbeth Long and Marion Da Costa have nominated, the Tullaroop Ward attracted two candidates in Sonia Wright and Anna De Villiers and a total 11 candidates have announced they are running for the Maryborough Ward (four vacancies).

The Maryborough Ward candidates are Gerard Murphy, Brendan Roughead, Wayne Sproull, Vanessa Parker, Anne Canterbury, Narrina Collicoat, Peter Jeffs, Geoff Lovett, Matt De Haan, Candice Anketell and Grace La Vella.

Residents in the Paddys Ranges Ward will not have to vote this election due to the seat being uncontested.

Across the state there were 2187 candidate nominations for 622 council vacancies in 298 separate elections.

Voters should receive ballot packs between October 6 and October 8 which will contain a ballot paper attached to statements and photographs lodged by the candidates in your council or ward, a ballot paper envelope, voting instructions and a reply-paid envelope, according to the VEC.

Votes must be in the mail before 6 pm Friday, October 23.