That price is often paid in blood by our young men and women who put themselves in harm’s way — either in Afghanistan or the fields of Europe more than 60 years ago.

They paid the ultimate price in defence against tyranny and fascism.

To maintain freedom and democracy a country must sometimes fight.

Those who gave the ultimate sacrifice did so defending one of the cornerstones of democracy — not the right to vote but rather the privilege.

Sadly however, voting is something that’s taken for granted in this country, likely because we have never been placed under the oppressive thumb of a dictatorship.

Voter turnout for a federal election usually hovers around 61 per cent, and that number has been dwindling in this country since 1935.

It’s acceptable to not enjoy politics; it’s okay to not be political astute 365 days of the year.

But what’s not okay is wasting a vote in a democracy.

If you’re planning not to vote, all we ask is that you take a little time between now and election day this Tuesday to study the parties and the candidates.

Look at the issues — the environment, the war in Afghanistan, immigration and many others.

Educate yourself and put an ‘X’ beside the candidate whose ideology you support.

Don’t support any candidate? Spoil your ballot. Whatever you do, let your voice be heard.

No matter which party wins, don’t complain if you don’t vote.