An election was held the day after the annual synod of the Anglican Diocese of Riverina, which was held in Leeton for the second year in a row.

The previous two bishops had been elected in Leeton, the last being Bishop Doug Stevens in 2005, something that was a source of pride for parish priest Archdeacon Robert Murphy.

"The last two bishops have been elected at Leeton, so we have a good tradition of 'white smoke'," Fr Robert said.

However, it was not to be this time as the vote to elect the new bishop was unsuccessful.

The candidate failed to reach a two thirds majority in both the house of clergy and house of laity.

There will now be a meeting at another time and place to try and elect the new bishop.

Last Friday marked consecutive years the Anglican synod had been held in Leeton.

Normally it would rotate through the diocese, but circumstances this year dictated it would be held at Madonna Place again.

The Riverina diocese covers 37 per cent of NSW, from west of Wagga to the South Australian border and north to the Queensland border.

Up to 75 delegates representing 22 towns were in attendance at synod.

Speaking prior to the failed election, administrator of the diocese Archdeacon Edwin Byford said the Friday meeting dealt with the formal business of the diocese.

"Saturday will be dedicated to electing the new bishop," he said.

"The ordinary session would have been held in two weeks if they were not combined together. A closed session will be held to try and elect a bishop."