The Port councillor said he could not attend after committing to the Hawks Nest/Tea Gardens Progress Association meeting being held on the same evening.

"I told the organisers that I had committed to the Tea Gardens event prior to receiving an invitation to their forum," Mr Jordan said.

"After realising that there was a clash with the dates, I provided the TRRA some alternative dates in the week before the election.

"The TRRA said [its] date (March 9) could not be changed, but nominations close on March 12.

"Because I cannot attend I have offered to meet with TRRA representatives separately."

Dick Appleby, TRRA's media officer, said the organisers had gone out of their way to accommodate Mr Jordan "to make this a successful event with all parties and candidates represented".

"We made contact with the Tea Gardens progress association who indicated they would be happy to move the date of their meeting," Mr Appleby said.

"As far as TRRA is concerned Mr Jordan is still invited to attend.

"The other dates put forward (March 25 and 26) were a bit unhelpful for obvious reasons.

"Also, the Nelson Bay Business Association has organised its twilight dinner at Nelson Bay Bowling Club, specifically so members can attend the forum afterwards."

Mr Appleby said all answers at the forum will be timed to ensure fairness under experienced moderator John James (from the Bureau of Meteorology at Williamtown). The forum will commence at 7pm.