Membership in the provincial Conservative party has grown significantly in the last 12 months. It's at 20,000, up from 6700.

It's no surprise to Portage Tory Riding Association President Norm Tilley. He's convinced it's because of contested nominations like the one in this riding.

Meanwhile, NDP Riding Association President Bob Kriski doesn't think the Tories' numbers will cause his party will change its recruitment plan. He notes they're always trying to increase their base, and that will be a focus as they approach their nomination in the new year.

Liberal Riding Association President Wilf Schellenberg says his party will hold a nomination soon. They've held off until the federal leadership has been decided.