Cessnock independent candidate Dale Troy hopes to airbrush Labor out of government at the state election.
But for now, the Cessnock councillor has resorted to using a paint and brush to redecorate his campaign office in a barter-deal with the landlord.
It has saved him money on rent that he can use for his campaign.
Cr Troy said he planned to spend $70,000 on the campaign, mostly from his own pocket.
"We made a family decision to spend our savings, to have a go and throw everything in," he said.
He said a ban on political donations from the liquor industry had affected him.
"Mates who own vineyards can't give anything because they are in the alcohol industry," he said.
"I don't think the legislation was put in place to stop local vignerons helping out a candidate, but it was aimed at big breweries and clubs."
Damon Cronshaw
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