Thousands more followed the lively discussions online as the Chronicle live-streamed the proceedings for the first time, some people staying in their cars outside the Memorial Centre to watch the evening unfold on their phones.
The forums were seen in Britain, Australia and other places around the world, with at least one person viewing it in Japan - so we got Whanganui, and some of the positive ideas candidates have for its future, out to a substantial audience.
The wastewater treatment plant was, naturally, a popular and contentious topic but plenty of other things were on the agenda.
Ways to cater for youth and keep them in Whanganui; ways to bring new jobs, with rates remissions for new businesses suggested; plans for pensioner housing; reducing the number of councillors; acceptable rates increases; preparing for climate change and the next flood; moving the library to Victoria Avenue; helping the rural sector ...
There was lots to chew over.
Some candidates delivered confident and composed addresses; others were less fluent and less sure-footed, though not lacking in good intention and passion for our district. Some revealed a sound knowledge of how a council functions and what is required of an elected representative; others were sketchy and, at times, out of their depth.
No one seemed too bothered about having an "H" in Whanganui, and everyone believed council had to work alongside iwi for mutual benefit.
All gave of their best - it was impressive. So much so that I mused our "show" was much better than anything from the night's TV offerings.
Our final public forum will feature the mayoral candidates and is at the War Memorial Centre on Thursday, September 15 - doors open 6pm for a 6.30pm start.
Then it is over to you, the voters. There are some good people putting their hands up - so vote wisely.
