Through the media, in a sense, you would have learned that Madam Justice Martin was stepping down, and then you'd get your computers organized to put together the long, extensive pieces of information that you would need. Some people, perhaps, had even begun that process long before.
We also know that, when you reach 75, you're going to have to step down. It also gives you an idea of when the next process, if you will, will be happening. You can begin to get your ducks in a row if you're considering an application.
Regardless, I still think more time is very important. That's one element of it. The other element, I think, is also seeking out and knowing beforehand that there are qualified people from that region who are intriguing, and perhaps not the committee itself but others who are involved in the process encourage them to apply.