Wagga residents are preparing to go to the polls for the third time in nine months, this time for the federal election.

After the byelection in September and the state election in March, it is understandable if voters are feeling a little bit lost for words.

Each election comes with a long campaign and a lot of promises and just when we think we are done, it starts again, with new candidates and new promises.

Australians are lucky enough to live in a country that encourages free speech and a say in who governs us.

It's not just frowned upon not to vote, it's practically a crime.

But while we relish in the chance to have our say, do we have to have it this often?

It is a very special circumstance, of course.

Elections are not usually held this close together, certainly not three in less than a year.

A series of unfortunate events brought us to this point.

But however fatigued we are feeling, it is still important to remember that democracy should not be taken for granted.

You don't have to have an interest in politics to have an interest in how your country is governed. 

We might not want to have to stand in line yet another Saturday but do not let your vote go to waste.

We saw in the byelection just what people power and a strong united voice is capable of.

This is the last chance we might have to exact that same power on a federal level.

It is a tough time for politicians and it's a tough time for voters.

It seems unlikely there will be much of a change for the Riverina, barring a cataclysmic event, but if that's what you want, dear voter, now's the time to speak up.

Because here's to hoping the public don't have to vote again until the usual three years between federal elections, barring a leadership spill.

Despite the outcome, we will be watching with bated breath.