Local Government Awards 2024

The first female Mayor of the City of Kwinana, Carol Adams was an elected member for a total of 26 years, highly respected for always fostering inclusivity and dynamic community engagement.

As Kwinana’s longest serving Mayor, a position she held for 17 years, Carol guided the community through the significant transformation period from Town to City status in 2012. A testament to her visionary leadership, this journey also showcased her strategic foresight and dedication to enhancing the City’s civic identity and governance structure. Her role was pivotal in navigating the complexities of this transition, ensuring that the change brought about improved services and recognition for the community.

Under Carol’s leadership, many exciting projects and initiatives were completed in the City, specifically the Westport project, an initiative that earmarked Kwinana as a strategic location for the development of a new outer harbour. Carol spearheaded the comprehensive advocacy campaign, demonstrating Kwinana's suitability as the optimal site for the Westport outer harbour, leveraging her extensive network and engaging with State Government officials, industry stakeholders, and the community to present a compelling case for Kwinana. Carol's persistent and well-informed advocacy significantly influenced the decision-making process, leading to the State Government's endorsement of Kwinana as the preferred location for the Westport outer harbour. This outcome not only reflected Carol's dedication to the economic growth and sustainability of Kwinana but also her ability to drive major strategic initiatives that have long-term benefits for the region and Western Australia at large.

Carol's strategic acumen was instrumental in the planning and execution of the $300 million City Centre Redevelopment Project in 2015, which had a major positive impact on Kwinana’s urban landscape and economic profile. She also launched the Looking Forward Project in 2007, an initiative aimed at attracting private and government sector investment in Kwinana.

During her exceptional service to the City of Kwinana, Carol chaired, and was a member of many Council, community, regional and State committees and boards. She was a WA Local Government Association State Councillor, a South West Group Board member, and Chairperson of both the Kwinana Citizens Advice Bureau and the Armadale Local Redevelopment Committee. She was a Metropolitan Commissioner of the WA Grants Commission, and a member of the Metropolitan Redevelopment Authority, Local Government Standards Panel, Moordtj Koort Aboriginal Corporation, Western Australian Police Union, and the WA Planning Commission’s Strategic Planning Committee, to name just a few.

Throughout her tenure, Carol has actively engaged with diverse community groups, advocating for inclusive and equitable services. Her initiatives have supported youth, marginalised populations, and the broader community, significantly enhancing Kwinana’s social fabric.

In 2014, her community service and leadership were recognised with a Paul Harris Fellowship Award by Rotary and in 2019 she was awarded an Order of Australia Medal, highlighting her significant impact on community development and the economic growth of Perth.

In acknowledgment of her impactful service, Carol was conferred with the title of Honorary Freedom of the City by the Kwinana Council, a testament to her enduring legacy and the high regard in which she is held by the community and her peers. Her contributions have not only advanced Kwinana’s development but have also set a benchmark for local government excellence in Western Australia, and she is a deserving winner of the 2024 Local Government Medal.

In a career spanning over four decades, Hon. Paul Omodei has made an exceptional contribution to the Western Australia Local Government sector.

Elected to the Shire of Manjimup for the first time in May 1976 at just 26 years old, Paul was an elected member for 12 years until May 1989, holding the position of Shire President twice during that time. He was re-elected to Council in 2013 after spending 19 years in State Parliament and became Shire President for the third time in March 2017, a testament to his reputation in the Manjimup community.

Throughout his distinguished career, Paul has consistently demonstrated outstanding service, character, and commitment to the sector, making significant contributions that have benefitted many communities across Western Australia. During his 26 years involved with the Shire of Manjimup, he held positions on many local, regional and State boards and committees. He was President of the South West Shire Councils Association and Chair of the Local Government Grants Commission, where he was dedicated to ensuring fair and effective resource allocation within the sector, fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing between Councils.

Paul has been a member of the Country Shire Councils’ Association, the South West Planning Committee, the South West Development Authority, the WA Local Government Association Councils Advisory Panel, the Local Government Insurance Scheme, and the South West Country Zone. He has consistently championed the interests of Local Government throughout his long and loyal career, proving his sustained passion for Local Government. An inaugural member of the Manjimup Senior High School Board, Paul’s extensive involvement in various local boards and committees further demonstrates his passion for local community development.

Elected to State Parliament in 1989 in the electorate of Warren, Paul served for 19 years in State Parliament, where he was appointed Minister for Local Government in 1993. As Minister, he made significant positive changes to the sector, including introducing the Local Government Act 1995, which involved combining the Constitution of Associations of Local Government to become the WA Local Government Association. He was involved with the restructure of the City of Perth Act 1996, and the creation of a new City of Perth, Town of Vincent (now City), Town of Victoria Park and Town of Cambridge. He managed the division of the old City of Wanneroo, creating the new Cities of Wanneroo and Joondalup, and presided over the amalgamation of the Town and Shire of Albany to create the new City of Albany.

Paul also oversaw numerous formal Local Government Departmental inquiries, including the Royal Commission into the City of Wanneroo and inquiries into the Shires of Boddington, Cockburn, Margaret River and South Perth. He was appointed Commissioner for both the Shire of Perenjori and the Shire of Cue.

Paul’s career demonstrates a consistent focus on elevating the position and value of WALGA, and Local Government within the wider Western Australian community. His extensive media experience as a Minister and Shadow Minister positioned him well to speak positively about the important role Local Governments play in communities. Paul regularly advocated for increased funding for local councils, emphasising the return on investment for the wider community, and framed Local Government as a vital partner in achieving broader State goals.

Paul's unwavering dedication and exceptional contributions have significantly enriched Local Government and communities across Western Australia, and he is a deserving recipient of the 2024 Local Government Medal.

A dedicated community representative since his election to the Shire of Wagin in 1992, Phillip Blight is a well known and highly respected elected member who had demonstrated strong and insightful leadership for over 30 years.

Elected President of the Shire in 2016, Phillip is recognised throughout the region for his willingness to roll up his sleeves and actively participate in community activities and events, despite his farm business demands. He has provided outstanding and consistent leadership over a long period of time, effectively managing numerous community emergencies including fires and floods.

Phillip has often seamlessly transitioned from frontline firefighting to Council meetings in the same day, a testament to his resilience and community dedication. Likewise, he has previously pulled on a high-vis uniform to manage traffic following a concrete truck spill in Wagin’s main street, demonstrating his practical leadership approach particularly during a crisis. This “lead by example” leadership style has fostered a wider community level of engagement and encourages others to commit to the development of the Wagin Shire.

Phillip’s tenure at the helm of the Shire of Wagin has been marked by a commitment to transparency, community engagement and good governance, providing stability and direction to the Wagin community. He delivers strong support and mentorship to elected members and has established a high standard with respect to professionalism and protocols within the Council chambers.

Known for his inclusive leadership style, Phillip is passionate about empowering others, fostering volunteerism and active participation within the community. He is skilled in playing the devils advocate and doesn’t shy away from asking hard questions to interrogate policy and ensure better outcomes for the Local Government sector.

During his long and loyal service, Phillip has been a member of many Council committees, some for up to 30 years, including the General Purposes Committee, the Sportsground Advisory Committee, the Housing Committee and the Woolorama Committee. He has served on the Rural Towns Rescue Committee, the Telecentre Committee, the Lakes Sub Regional Road Group, the Frail Aged Care Homes Committee, the Bushfire Advisory Committee, the Airport Development Committee and the 4WDL VROC Committee.

Phillip is an active member of the committee responsible for the Australia Day Awards and is instrumental in celebrating and recognising community achievements.

A WALGA State Councillor since 2013, Phillip has chaired or been a member of a number of Association committees including the Finance and Services Committee, the People and Place Policy Team, and the Best Practice Governance Review Working Group.

A strong regional advocate, Phillip regularly lobbies for improved funding, infrastructure and services, not just for his local Shire but for all regional communities.

Providing outstanding community leadership for a total of 22 years over two separate terms, Frank Cvitan was first elected as an inaugural Councillor with the new City of Wanneroo in 1999. Serving for 10 years until 2009, Frank was then re-elected after a two year break and served another 12 years until his retirement in 2023.

Frank held the position of Deputy Mayor of the City from 2019 until 2021, is a Justice of the Peace, and volunteered on numerous working groups, applying his knowledge and endless enthusiasm to the development of the City’s strategic agenda.

A mentor to many elected members, Frank always shared personal anecdotes and provided wise guidance throughout his Local Government career, and his advice was often instrumental in ensuring correct and appropriate decision-making and fostering comradery among the elected group.

Frank was active in important community groups and policy forums, such as the Wanneroo Town Centre Advisory Group, the East Wanneroo Community Reference Group, the Neerabup Industrial Working Group, and the Yanchep Lagoon Master Plan Advisory Group. His involvement in these groups was critical to advancing the City’s establishment of the Neerabup Automation and Robotics precinct, progression of a Master Plan for the Yanchep Lagoon precinct, and collaboration with landowners in East Wanneroo to facilitate orderly and respectful planning discussions.

A champion of the local small business community, Frank regularly attended events at the Wanneroo Business Association, and always maintained positive and respectful interactions with the business community. He often advocated on behalf of small businesses, convinced of the view that Local Government must have a symbiotic relationship with the network of businesses who invest in and develop the employment capacity of the district.

Frank was passionate about waste management and the importance of transitioning to a more sustainable, affordable and flexible system for waste and recycling Frank represented the City on the Mindarie Regional Council, and was Chair of the City of Wanneroo Waste Advisory Group for several years.

An inaugural member of the WALGA State Council, Frank’s natural charisma, professionalism and ability to develop positive working relationships ensured the unique priorities and challenges facing a growing outer metropolitan district were recognised at the State level.

Frank was the Council’s appointed delegate on the board of the Wanneroo Historical Society, Wanneroo Agricultural Society, and Elder Bloom Aged Care for many years, regularly communicating updates to stakeholders about Council decisions and facilitating a positive and mutually beneficial rapport between community organisations and Local Government. Often, these commitments required attendance at meetings during the evening, further demonstrating Mr Cvitan’s enthusiasm for the integral relationship between community and Local Government.

Mayor of the City of Cockburn since 2009, Logan Howlett is a true leader for the people, always out and about in the community ensuring he understands and represents the people he has served for the past 15 years. An elected member of the City for a total of 24 years, Logan previously served nine years as a Councillor from 1990 to 1999.

After 10 years away from Local Government, Logan was elected by popular vote as Mayor of the City in an extraordinary election in March 2009, and as testament to his outstanding community reputation, he has been re-elected Mayor four times since then, in October 2009, 2013, 2017, and again in 2021.

A dedicated community volunteer, Logan has lived in Cockburn for 50 years and is passionate about the Cockburn community, its history and its future. Logan regularly seeks feedback from community members and is dedicated to improving opportunities for everyone, to ensure Cockburn is an exceptional place to live and work.

In his role as Mayor, Logan commits an average of 80-90 hours per week to ensure he meets his obligations to serve the community to the best of his ability.

Logan is well known and respected in the broader Local Government sector and has been a WALGA State Councillor since 2013. He has also been the Council representative and Deputy Chair of the South Metropolitan Zone. At this State representative level, he has been an active member of numerous committees, forums and groups, including the Finance and Services Committee, the Governance Policy Team, the Environment and Waste Policy Team, the Economic Development Policy Forum, the Verge Collection Working Group, the Municipal Waste Advisory Council, and the South Metropolitan Regional Road Group. He was also Chair of the Metropolitan Regional Road Group.

Throughout Logan’s distinguished career in Local Government, he has served on many Council committees, including Council’s Audit, Risk and Compliance Committee, Economic Development Committee, and Organisational Performance Committee. He has been a member of many regional committees, including the Metropolitan South-West Joint Development Assessment Panel, the Cockburn Sister Cities Reference Group, the Perth South West Metropolitan Alliance, Perth Region Natural Resource Management Committee, the Southern Corridor Alliance, Community Connect South, and the Growth Areas Perth & Peel (GAPP) Alliance to name just a few of his more notable commitments.

He has been a member of over 30 community groups, such as the Lions Club of Atwell Inc. and the Rotary Club of Cockburn Inc, has been the Secretary of both the Cockburn Sunday League Inc. and the Coolbellup Junior Football Club Inc. and was the Coach of the Coolbellup Junior Football Club. This extensive involvement at all community levels reflects his character and contribution to building strong and resilient communities.

Logan has been awarded Life Membership of both the Historical Society of Cockburn Inc. and the Wetlands Centre Cockburn Inc. In 2019 he was the recipient of the Western Australian Volunteer Services Award for his role as a Justice of the Peace since 1992.

The City of Fremantle’s longest serving Councillor, Doug Thompson was elected in 1988 and has been a tireless and committed community representative for an outstanding 35 years.

Instrumental in the development of the City’s waste recovery program, Doug has been a member of the Resource Recovery Group (formerly the Southern Metropolitan Regional Council (SMRC)) for 29 years and was the Chair of this group on two separate occasions, from 2005 to 2009 and then again in 2017 until 2023. He played a pivotal role in the instigation of the Food Organic Garden Organic (FOGO) waste service implementation across Western Australia, with a trial demonstrating this system achieves greater than 65 per cent diversion from landfill, reduces processing costs, produces an Australian Standard compost, while also receiving strong support and participation from the community. Doug was Chair of the group when it received an Infinity Award in 2018, which recognises outstanding achievements of Western Australians working towards a better waste future through improved waste practices and innovative waste solutions. The SMRC was also awarded the 2021 WA Waste Award for its outstanding commitment to community waste reduction, reuse and recycling over 20 years, with Doug accepting the award as Chair.

Doug was a member of the WALGA State Council from 2008 until 2023, chairing both the Container Deposit Legislation Policy Forum and the Municipal Waste Advisory Council.

During his time as Chair of the Resource Recovery Group and Municipal Waste Advisory Committee, Doug was a member of the State Government Waste Taskforce which was established by the Minister for Environment in 2018 to provide advice on recycling market issues and opportunities in Western Australia. Additionally, he was a member of the Container Deposit Scheme State Taskforce, which aims to reduce litter and improve recycling.

Doug has been a member of multiple committees and working groups during his time at the City of Fremantle including the International Relations Working Group, the South-West Corridor Development Foundation, the Audit and Risk Management Committee, Library Advisory Committee, Strategic and General Services Committee, and the Finance, Policy, Operations and Legislation Committee.

Doug’s consistent re-election to his local Council is evidence of the community confidence he has earned throughout his 35 years of dedicated elected service. Through his committed tenure, Doug has proved his commitment to both local and larger issues employing his experience, skills, and passion to improve services and opportunities in the Fremantle community.

A dynamic leader who is well known for empowering and mentoring staff, Andrew Brien has been an outstanding Local Government employee over his 33 year career. Beginning his employment in Local Government in Queensland in 1991, Andrew began his first Chief Executive Officer role just 13 years later. He was appointed to the position of CEO of Tiaro Shire Council in Queensland in 2004, followed by further CEO positions at Fraser Coast Local Transition Committee, Fraser Coast Regional Council, the City of Bunbury, and the City of Bayswater. In 2022, Andrew took on the role of CEO at the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder, managing a staff of 300 people that required significant cultural and structural change. His influence at the City has been both profound and transformative with his commitment to transparent communication and proactive conflict resolution not only preserving employment conditions but also bolstering trust within the organisation.

Amongst many innovative and successful internal improvement strategies, Andrew implemented a new format for undertaking regular staff surveys followed by organisation-wide training including mental health first aid and psychosocial leadership training and a staff induction program delivered by the executive leadership team. He instigated a Staff Service Awards program, the development of organisation-wide KPIs related to staff values and behaviour, and the introduction of new all-of-Council events at the City. In 2023 the City held its first ever Harmony Day event and International Women’s Day event for staff.

Andrew was recently appointed to the Ministerial Advisory Group on homelessness, is lobbying for the development of shelter for short-term visitors from the remote Aboriginal community of Tjuntjuntjarra and instigated a City research project into anti-social behaviour and transitional homelessness.

Andrew’s initiatives over the course of his Local Government career have not only improved Local Government operations but set benchmarks for others to follow.

Dedicating his life to the Margaret River community, Ian Earl is a down to earth, hands-on community leader. Elected to Council in 2009, Ian has held the positions of both Deputy Shire President and Shire President and is highly respected for his 15 years of committed service to the Augusta Margaret River community.

During his term as President, Ian was instrumental in securing support and funding to complete the construction of the Margaret River HEART, a $10 million state-of-the-art Hub of Entertainment, Arts and Regional Tourism. While President, Ian managed the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the lockdown of the Shire, where he spent considerable personal time supporting the community, undertaking many media interviews and discussing strategies with the CEO and her team on how to manage the pandemic in the community.

Ian has been a member of the Cowaramup Bushfire Brigade for 43 years and has been the Fire Control Officer for Cowaramup for the past 25 years. In 2011, Ian managed the Kilcarnup section of the Margaret River fire, where he and his team saved many houses with their heroic efforts. Ian was the Council representative on the Capes Enhancement Program, which oversaw a major upgrade of Bush Fire Services and facilities in the Shire.

Passionate about community access to green spaces and facilities for physical activity, Ian has championed many community infrastructure projects including the installation of reticulation for the Cowaramup oval, involvement in the Gloucester Park Masterplan and construction of the Lower Western Playing Fields and supporting carpark.

Passionate about community sports, Ian has committed countless hours to coaching junior and senior sporting teams and is now a Life Member of three different community sporting clubs.

President of the Shire of Kellerberrin from 2013 until 2023, Rodney Forsyth is a strategic leader who always went above and beyond for his community throughout his time with the Council. Elected to the Shire in 2009, Rod spearheaded several major infrastructure projects that have been a major boost for the community including the construction of the new recreation centre, the development of the caravan park, the construction of 17 aged care units in the broader wheatbelt region, construction of the Skate Park/Centenary Park, the development of industrial land for sale to new businesses, the construction of a dam for town water collection and storage, and an upgrade to the swimming pool.

Passionate about the improvement of roads throughout the Wheatbelt, Rod represented the Council on a number of groups that lobbied for improvements to wheatbelt road infrastructure and safety. He was Chair of the Regional Road Group for two years, the Shire’s representative on the Wheatbelt North Regional Road Group, and was the Great Eastern Country Zone deputy delegate, full delegate, then Chair of the Local Grain Freight Network.

As the longest serving President with the Shire, Rod always committed significant time and energy to improving opportunities in the region and was a member of many Council and regional committees. He was Chair of the Audit Committee, the Kellerberrin Community Resource Centre, and the Wheatbelt East Regional Organisation of Councils, and represented Council on the Regional Assessment Panel, the Local Health Advisory Group and the Roads Advisory Committee, to name just a few of his commitments.

Holding the honour of being the first popularly elected Mayor of the City of Stirling, Mark Irwin was elected to the Council in 2015, then elected Mayor in both 2019 and 2023.

A popular community leader who is also well respected amongst the staff, Mark has a strong connection with small businesses in the City, serving board terms with both the Stirling Business Association and the Small Business Corporation.

Under Mark’s visionary leadership, the City of Stirling has implemented numerous innovative projects over the past nine years, including a trial of trackless trams in Scarborough, an Economic Stimulus and Community Activation Package in response to the COIVD-19 pandemic, and the Stephenson Avenue Road extension project which will see traffic directed away from Scarborough Beach Road. Mark also instigated the Stirling City Centre project which will unlock private investment in the area, relieve traffic congestion, increase employment opportunities and support the future light rail operation.

Further illustrating his strategic and highly respected leadership style, the City recently achieved its highest recorded level of community satisfaction, with a score of 96 per cent for the 2022/23 financial year.

A long-term community volunteer, Mark has been an active member of the Scarborough Surf Life Saving Club since he was nine years old. He was President of the Club for five years, and President/Chair of Surf Life Saving WA for six years.

Mark is currently a member of the Local Government House Trust Board of Management, is the Presiding Member of the City of Stirling’s Chief Executive Officer Performance Review Committee and is a member of the City’s Local Emergency Management Committee.

Dedicating 19 years to representing his community, Chris King is a highly regarded leader who has served two separate terms as President of the Shire of Perenjori. First elected to Council in 1999, Chris also took on the role of Deputy President before being elected President in 2009 where he first served for six years before retiring in 2015.

During his first 16 years of service, the community experienced significant growth in mining activities which had a major impact on Shire resources and community infrastructure and services. As a result of Chris’s outstanding leadership style and strong guidance, he ensured long term benefits were secured for the community. He was a member of many Council and Community committees during his tenure and represented the Council at numerous regional and State forums. Chris was awarded Freeman of the Shire of Perenjori in recognition of his dedication, service, and contribution to the community following his retirement in 2015.

Re-elected to Council in 2020 following the finalisation of a Local Government inquiry, Chris was unanimously endorsed by the new Council as President until his retirement in 2023. During this time, Chris guided the predominately new Council members in the rebuilding of good governance and administration for the Shire. Chris dedicated significant time and energy following his election as President in 2020 in rebuilding community trust and confidence in the leadership of the Shire following a very tumultuous period. Chris’s steady leadership qualities were then called on again following the unprecedented and devastating effects of Cyclone Seroja in 2021, where he worked tirelessly to assist the community rebuild.

A transformational leader of the Town of Bassendean, Renee McLennan was elected to Council in 2017. After two years as an elected member, Renee was elected Mayor of the Town until 2021. Following this, Renee was the Deputy Mayor until her retirement in 2023.

As a new mother and newly elected member, Renee broke down barriers around what were perceived to be traditional roles, clearly demonstrating an ability for people from all walks of life, backgrounds and circumstances to serve their communities.

Committed to the principles of sustainability, waste management and environmental protection, Renee has been the driving force behind the implementation of many successful volunteer led programs in the Town of Bassendean, including the establishment of both the Repair Café in Bassendean and the Share Shed Bassendean, plus joining the Town with the Town Teams movement.

Throughout her dedicated tenure, Renee worked tirelessly to improve the quality of life of all Bassendean residents, advocating for programs such as a 30% tree canopy target. Under her leadership, the Town of Bassendean was one of the first metropolitan Councils to roll out the three bin Food Organic Garden Organic (FOGO) system in 2020. The associated educational program and successful roll-out delivered fantastic results driving the Town of Bassendean landfill diversion rate from just 20.6% to 62.2% within the first year. Renee’s foresight paid enormous dividends across the sector paving the way for other Local Governments to emulate the programs instigated by the Town of Bassendean.

During her time as both Mayor and Deputy Mayor, Renee significantly elevated the value of the Local Government sector through consistent communication with the community, which provided for a greater understanding of how Local Government functions.

Eileen O'Connell has never missed a Council meeting in her 30 years of dedicated service as an elected representative with the Shire of Nungarin. Shire President for 21 years, from 1998 until 2019, she was also Deputy Shire President for three years from 1995 until 1998.

Still a Councillor with the Shire, Elieen is a passionate and motivated leader who holds the deep respect of her local community for her long and loyal service. Also held in high regard by those across the broader Local Government sector, she was a WALGA State Councillor for six years, and a Great Eastern Country Zone delegate for 24 years, which included seven years as President of the Zone and two years as Deputy President.

She was the Shire’s delegate to the North Eastern Wheatbelt Regional Organisation of Councils (NEWROC) for 24 years, was the Chairperson of NEWROC for three terms, a member of NEW TRAVEL for six years and a member of NEW RECREATION for four years.

Eileen was the proxy delegate, and then the delegate of the Regional Road Group for a total of 11 years and remains the Vice Chair of this group. She is a member of both the Wheatbelt Secondary Freight Network and the Kununoppin Local Health Advisory Group and is the Shire delegate and Chair of the Sub Regional Road Group.

Throughout her elected service, Eileen has always prioritised good governance, sound financial management, consultation and the maintenance and continued improvement of services and infrastructure. She has always made herself available to community members and community groups and continues to commit to the future growth of the Nungarin community.

Elected to the Shire of Plantagenet in 2011, Chris Pavlovich was Shire President from 2017 until his retirement from Council in 2023.

A compassionate and caring leader, Chris was instrumental in the Shire becoming a Women’s Welcome Zone, supporting the Mount Barker Hazara community with the settlement and integration of Afghan refugees. Under his guidance, the Shire became a “Proposer” for identified Hazara Safe Haven Enterprise Visa holders to encourage family members to apply for humanitarian visas to Australia.

A WALGA State Councillor from 2017 until 2023, Chris represented the Shire on numerous regional committees and groups including the Regional Road Group, the Southern Joint Assessment Panels, the Great Southern Regional Recreation Advisory Group, the South Coast Alliance Inc., the Southern Link Regional Organisation of Councils, and the Pardelup Community Liaison Group.

During his dedicated tenure, Chris was always available to attend and volunteer at community events and functions, such as Australia Day and Anzac Day.

Chris was the Presiding Member of numerous Council and advisory committees from 2017 until his retirement. Also involved with a large number of committees, Chris was a member of the Southern Aboriginal Corporation and Mount Barker Aboriginal Community Centre, the Mount Barker Bulls Football Club and the Mount Barker Speedway Club.

An elected member with the Shire of Laverton for 20 years across two separate terms, Robin Prentice was first elected to Council in 2000, serving for eleven years until 2011. She was then elected for a second and separate term in 2015, retiring in 2023.

Robin has been an integral member of the community and has been involved in many community projects and events. She is a committee member for the Laverton Race Club, and was instrumental in the development of the new bar area and other significant upgrades at the Club. As a committee member, she was involved with the organisation of the 50 year celebrations of racing on the Laverton Race track. A member of the Sports Club Committee, Robin has volunteered her time on many occasions at sporting events and clean up days. She played a major role in organising the Flying Dr Treks visits in 2002 and 2005, assisting in raising money for the Royal Flying Doctor Service.

Throughout her 20 years as an elected representative, Robin has been a member of many Council and community committees including the Audit Committee, the Community Development Committee, the Outback Highway Development Council, the Golden Quest Discovery Trail, the Goldfields-Esperance Regional Road Group, the Laverton Housing Project Development Committee, the Development Assessment Panel – Goldfields, the Goldfields Esperance Country Zone and the Friends of Laverton Cemetery Advisory Group.

She has previously been nominated for the Sheila Laver Award for her voluntary services, support and ongoing commitment to the Laverton community.

Elected to Council in 2015, Les Price was immediately elected Deputy President of the Shire of Cue, a position he held until his election as President in 2023. A hard working and selfless leader, Les has the ability to connect and engage with everyone in the community, forging strong relationships with many different groups in the towns. He works closely with small businesses to develop opportunities for increased employment, proposed infrastructure, grant funding and youth engagement. He has a strong connection to the Shire’s indigenous community and will always listen to their concerns and advocate on their behalf to the Council.

Les worked tirelessly on the Murchison Regional Vermin Council’s successful application for government funding for the construction of 326 kilometres of vermin fencing which has created a cell around 54 stations within the Southern Rangelands Region, covering a total of approximately 1,400km2.

A WALGA State Councillor representing the Murchison Country Zone since 2016, Les is Chair of the Association’s Environment Policy Team, a member of the Selection Panel, and a member of the Municipal Waste Advisory Council.

He is the current Chair of the Shire’s Audit Committee, the Deputy President of the Murchison Regional Vermin Council, and was a member of the Mid-West Wheatbelt Joint Development Assessment Panel until 2020.

Les actively fights for better opportunities in regional Western Australia and always maintains his “nothing is impossible” attitude. He utilises his experiences gained from business in effectively dealing with all three levels of Government for the benefit of the wider community.

Beginning her career as an elected member with the Shire of Mount Magnet in 1995, Isabelle Scott was President of the Shire until 2003, during which time she focused heavily on improving youth related services and opportunities, including education and training. She was also passionate about population retention following the introduction of a fly-in fly-out (FIFO) workforce in the community. In 2003, Isabelle was awarded the Centenary of Federation Medal for her service to the community by improving the standard of education in isolated areas.

Isabelle was Chair of the Murchison Ward of the Country Shire Councils’ Association (commonly known as Cue Parliament), and following that, the Murchison Country Zone until 2003. During her leadership, Isabelle strived to illustrate the problems facing regional Shires that had small populations but a demand for higher levels of services due directly to FIFO work practices.

A trainer of elected members with WALGA for four years until 2008, Isabelle then relocated to the Shire of Irwin, where she was elected to Council in 2017. In this role, she represents the Shire as the delegate to the Northern Country Zone and has also served as a Deputy State Council representative for the Zone.

Throughout her committed elected service to both the Shires of Mount Magnet and Irwin, Isabelle has consistently demonstrated her dedication to public service, and her leadership and advocacy have significantly contributed to the development and sustainability of regional areas, addressing critical issues such as education, infrastructure, and housing.

First elected to the Shire of Wagin in 2007, Greg Ball has been an unwavering representative who has worked tirelessly to improve facilities and services in the Wagin community for many years. Greg was Deputy President from 2009 until 2016, and then again from 2017 until 2023, providing the community with strong leadership throughout a period of significant development and change. He has spearheaded numerous projects including the redevelopment of the Town Square, the upgrade to the Aerodrome, and the modernisation of the Wagin Depot. Apart from his many local commitments, Greg has also held the position of WALGA Deputy State Councillor and has been a delegate to the Regional Road Group.

Serving eight years with the Shire of Kent from 2015 until 2023, Tim Borgward is a highly respected community leader who has always advocated for the retention of sports and activities in local communities, understanding the importance of both for the long-term success of a small community. A driver of the infamous Pingrup Races, Tim has led the community in organising this annual event that has placed the community of Pingrup on the State’s tourism calendar. Throughout his elected service, Tim has been a strong voice for ratepayers, listening to their concerns and actioning these at Council meetings. He served on the Bushfire Advisory Committee, the Great Southern Recreational Advisory Group, and the Shire’s Audit Committee. 

Committing over two decades of his life to the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder, Lui Camporeale has been an exceptional employee who began as the Parks Manager with the City in 2003 and has worked his way to being the first internally appointed Director of Engineering. Kalgoorlie-Boulder’s well known and highly regarded parks, gardens and sporting facilities, which are all essential for an inland city, are a testament to Lui’s commitment to the City, and his dedication to the community. Lui has played a pivotal role in mentoring young employees, has been actively involved with youth initiatives and youth councillors, and served for over two decades as the President of the City’s Social Club, which played an important role in assisting new employees to integrate into the Kalgoorlie community. Lui was awarded the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder Employee of the Year in 2017.

A committed community volunteer, Moya Carne served 20 years as an elected member of the Shire of Williams, from 2003 until her retirement in 2023. She has been so dedicated to the development of the community that she received the Citizen of the Year award in 1982, and then received the award 42 years later in 2024. Serving on many Council and community committees, Moya was a member of the Central County Zone, the Williams Recreational Advisory Committee, the Pride in Your Town Committee, and the Williams Driver Reviver Committee. She is a Life Member of both the Williams Golf Club and the Netball Club, was on the board of the Medical Centre and was a frequent volunteer for the combined Churches of Williams. Moya is also a Justice of the Peace and has appeared in Court many times over the years.

Elected to the City of Busselton in 2015, Paul Carter served as an elected member for eight years until 2023, including two years as the City’s Deputy Mayor. A member of over 20 different committees and working groups, Paul represented the City on the Naturaliste RoadWise Committee, the Regional Road Group, the Development Assessment Panel, the Vasse Ministerial Taskforce and the Busselton Margaret River Regional Airport Consultation Group. Paul was also Deputy Chair of the Busselton Water Board and a board member of the Busselton Chamber of Commerce. A strong advocate for the small business community, Paul has championed the push to increase the visibility of the City’s Buy Local Policy.

Elected to the City of Joondalup in 2009, John Chester is a life-long environmentalist who is dedicated to the preservation of the City’s natural assets and the promotion of sustainability in all Council decisions. He has instigated many community projects such as the Duncraig Edible Garden, the Bush Forever Group, and the Green Frog Drain Stencilling Project. John spearheaded the project which saw photovoltaic panels placed on most community buildings and has been a committee member for more than 20 years on the Friends of Yellagonga Regional Park. He was a founding member of the Kinglsey and Greenwood Residents’ Association and continues to serve on numerous Council committees and reference groups including the Strategic Community Reference Group, and the Catalina Regional Council.

President of the Shire of Kent from 2019 until 2023, Scott Crosby has been an outstanding community representative since his election to Council in 2015. Scott has recently taken on the role of WALGA State Councillor, representing the Great Southern Country Zone. A passionate advocate for the regions, Scott has spent many hours lobbying State Government for fair and equitable opportunities and resources for rural Councils. He has been instrumental in attracting greater road funding for numerous smaller rural Councils and has served on many Council and community committees including the Bushfire Advisory Committee, and the Regional Road Group.

Elected to the City of Joondalup in 2009 at the age of just 19, Christine Hamilton-Prime was both the City’s and Australia’s youngest elected member at the time. Christine is passionate about growing the City’s prosperity through the Joondalup Innovation Precinct which serves to drive business investment, innovation and collaboration across industries. Throughout her 15-year service to the City she has championed many causes, notably a commitment to improving engagement and amenities for young people, advocating for the region’s innovation, cyber security, and health med-tech sectors, and has shown visionary leadership on transformative projects, such as the Ocean Reef Marina. Christine has represented the City on the Jinan Sister City Delegation to China in 2015 and was the City’s delegate to both the Invest and Trade WA Mission to India in 2022, and the National Health and Innovation Precincts Summit in Sydney.

Deputy Mayor Bronwyn Ife was elected to the Town of Victoria Park in 2017, and throughout her dedicated service to the community, has been a member of many committees such as the Economic Development Committee, the Community Development Committee, and the Urban Forest Implementation Working Group. Bronwyn was Chair of the South East Metropolitan Zone from 2019 to 2023 and represented the Town on both the Tamala Park Regional Council and the Burswood Park Board. Passionate about the environment, diversity and inclusion, and the Arts, Bronwyn spearheaded the Town’s first Climate Emergency Plan which was adopted by Council in 2021 and moved a motion to endorse the Uluru Statement from the Heart in 2023, thereby promoting reconciliation with First Nations peoples in the Victoria Park community.

First elected to the City of Mandurah in 2012, Peter Jackson has been a dedicated and passionate community representative for the past 12 years, always supporting and contributing to the City’s annual events, such as Mandurah Crab Fest, Mandurah Arts Festival, Wearable Art Competition, Children’s Festival, Christmas Pageant, New Year’s Eve, and Australia Day. A forward-thinking leader, Peter is Chair of both the Mandurah Liquor Accord and the City’s Audit and Risk Committee and is a member of the Mandurah and Peel Tourism Organisation Board, the Community Grants Panel, the Executive Committee, and the Planning Committee. Peter was instrumental in the delivery of an ambitious capital works program in the City which included the refurbishment of the Mandurah Aquatic and Recreation Centre, the Eastern Foreshore Seawall replacement, the redevelopment of Mandurah Square, and the addition of the Lakelands Library and Community Centre. 

Passionate about the future of small country towns, Renae Jury served the Shire of Kent as an elected member for 13 years, being first elected in 2009. Renae spearheaded the project to build the Pingrup Community Resource Centre, which is now an important hub providing government services, library services, tourist information and a small retail outlet in the town. She is a strong advocate for rural education and lobbied for many years for increased and improved teacher housing as an incentive to attract quality teachers into small country schools. During her time with the Shire, she served on numerous committees and community groups, including the Great Southern Recreation Advisory Committee, and as a delegate on the Great Southern Country Zone.

Stephen Lee has served the community of Murray with dedication and commitment since his election to the Shire in 2013. Deputy President from 2015 until 2019, Stephen is highly regarded in the community for his strong and supportive leadership style, and his support of community development projects. Stephen has held numerous roles throughout his time with Council, including Chair of the Pinjarra Bendigo Bank, and Treasurer of Friends of Edenvale, Pinjarra Lions Club and the Ravenswood Community Group. He is a member of the Pinjarra Heritage Railway Working Group and the Pinjarra Community Garden, and is the organiser of the Pinjarra Garden Day. Stephen represented the Shire on the Peel Country Zone for six years.

Highly regarded for his focus on good governance and strong leadership, David McMullen was popularly elected as Mayor of the City of Subiaco in 2021 after just one term as Councillor. Bringing a sense of stability, reliability and calm to the City, David has restored trust and created a culture of positivity amongst staff, elected members and the community by introducing many initiatives such as externally facilitated Council Strategy and Planning sessions and regular Council forums. David’s measured and approachable leadership style was recognised in the 2023 Community Scorecard, with a 76% positive score in the Category of ‘Leadership by the Mayor and Councillors’, which has increased a staggering 46% since David’s election as Mayor. A corporate and commercial lawyer, David has restored public confidence in the City with private sector investment now at an all-time high.

Serving continuously with the Shire of Meekatharra since his election in 2003, Harvey Nicols was elected Shire President in 2019, a position he continues to hold. Harvey is a generational pastoralist, and as such, understands the unique economic, social and cultural issues facing the community. A deeply respected community leader for the past 21 years, Harvey represents the Council on the Murchison Country Zone and is a member of numerous Council and community committees. Harvey is currently the Chair of the Meekatharra Roads Group, Deputy Captain of the Bush Fire Brigade, the Shire’s delegate to the WA Mid-West Regional Road Group, and a member of the Murchison Regional Biodiversity Association, the Meekatharra Gymkhana Club and the Murchison Region Vermin Council.

Serving over 15 years as an elected member with the City of Mandurah, Dave Schumacher is committed to improving reconciliation, inclusion, public safety and developing a vibrant community. He is the Chair of the Mandurah Liquor Licence Accord, the City’s Planning and Infrastructure Committee and the Governance Committee and was an inaugural member of the Reconciliation Steering Committee. A mental health advocate, Dave lobbied for $10 million in funding from State and Federal governments to build the GP Down South Peel Youth Hub, which provides critical mental health services to young people in the region. Serving on 18 Council committees, boards and panels, Dave has also held leadership roles in numerous community organisations, including the Pat Thomas Women’s Refuge, Reach Out Drop-In Centre, and Seascapes Residents Association.

Deputy President of the Shire of Morawa, Ken Stokes has been an elected Councillor and highly regarded community leader for 18 years. Passionate about road safety, Ken continues to lobby for resources to improve road safety, particularly in regional areas, and was a strong advocate for the development of the Town Alternative Access road, and Town Centre revitalisation project. Ken is the Shire’s representative on the Regional Road Group and is Deputy Chair of the North Midlands Zone Regional Road Group. He is the Shire’s proxy delegate for the Northern Country Zone, a member of the Shire’s Audit and Risk Committee, the Sinosteel Future Fund Grants Committee, and the Australia Day Citizen of the Year Assessment Panel.

Elected to Council in 2013, Kirrilee Warr has been President of the Shire of Chapman Valley since 2021. As advocate for women in rural and regional areas, Kirrilee holds numerous board and committee positions that work to improve opportunities for women in her community and beyond. A collaborative leader, Kirrilee has driven many significant community projects such as the introduction of high-speed fixed wireless and mobile blackspot towers, sporting complex improvements, the development of the Coronation Beach Nature campground, the Cyclone Seroja Recovery program and improvements to numerous community playgrounds and local roads. She is a Mid-West Development board member, a Racing & Wagering WA board member and a WALGA State Councillor representing the Northern Country Zone.

With over 20 years of governance experience in local and State governments across Australia, Jamie Blanchard began his role as Manager Governance with the City of Stirling in 2018. Admitted to the Supreme Court of Western Australia in 2008, Jamie has extensive legal experience and has provided outstanding governance and legal guidance to numerous Local Governments in Western Australia. Throughout his career with the City of Stirling, Jamie has managed a number of high-profile governance projects, including leading the City in its first popularly elected mayoral election in 2019, working with elected members to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, and developing the City’s first Data Strategy, Strategic Risk Register and Accountable Stirling Action Plan. Under his leadership, the City has implemented United Nations initiatives such as International Anti-Corruption Day, and in 2021 his contribution to Local Government was recognised in the Modern 100 Governance Recipients by governance, risk and compliance company Diligent.

Chief Executive Officer with the Shire of Pingelly since 2021, Andrew Dover has a passion for community and economic development and is respected for his visionary leadership in driving transformative change across the Shire. Andrew inspires and motivates his staff, and over the past three years, he has spearheaded many projects that have improved the quality of life in the Pingelly community, such as the development of a Culture and Arts Framework, the redevelopment of the Town Hall, the reformation of the museum, the initiation of the Gnalla Wangkiny Park Project and the instigation of a Shire policy to prioritise inclusivity, culture and history. During Andrew’s time as CEO, the Shire has been awarded numerous accolades, including the Tidy Towns Sustainable Communities Overall Winner in 2023. Andrew’s innovative problem-solving skills, his commitment to transparency and inclusivity, plus his ability to develop strategic partnerships across the region have been instrumental in re-shaping the Pingelly community’s physical and cultural landscape.

With a career spanning more than 30 years in Local and State Government, Noelene Jennings has a tireless work ethic, and always advocates for good governance and responsible financial management. Director of Corporate Strategy and Corporate Performance with the City of Wanneroo since 2014, Noelene has also previously acted in the role of Chief Executive Officer. A recipient of a Public Service Medal, Noelene has demonstrated excellent leadership in a range of complex, challenging and dynamic portfolios, and in her current role has responsibility for procurement and the governance of the tender process. Noelene is committed to best practice standards in this field, and her leadership has maintained a consistent and necessary degree of separation between the Council and the Administration. She is the longest serving board member of the City of Perth Lord Mayor’s Distress Fund, serving continuously on the board since 1996. She has served as a Business Excellence Evaluator for 24 years and has been President of Relationships Australia WA for six years.

After an extensive career in information technology and information management, Dionie Johnson is demonstrating outstanding leadership in her role as the Senior Officer Arts and Culture with the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder. One of her first projects was to lead the City’s liaison with a group of local and regional First Nations artists, commissioned to create one of WA’s largest displays of Aboriginal art. Dionie was instrumental in the program to provide new cultural and economic opportunities and facilities for Aboriginal people in the City, including facilitating the development of an Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Centre, Indigenous art gallery, and cultural trails. Dionie’s knowledge, sensitivity and expertise was vital in the creation of the City’s First Nations Engagement Outline, and she is also planning a project with the City’s People and Culture and Economic Development teams to find ways to encourage Aboriginal young people to apply for roles at the City. Her respectful leadership in this area is both a powerful and significant contribution to the Local Government sector, enhancing cultural understanding for the benefit of all people.

Retiring in 2023 after 40 years in Western Australian Local Governments, Geoff McKeown has made a significant and important contribution to regional and rural communities across Western Australia. Beginning his Local Government career at the Shire of Moora in 1983, Geoff also held positions at the Shires of Carnarvon, Wagin and Narrogin, before his appointment as Chief Executive Officer with the Shire of Williams in 2015. Geoff was highly respected for his understanding of rural communities and his collaborative and sensitive management style. He spent countless hours assisting numerous community groups and his gentle and caring approach to leadership provided staff at the Shire with the encouragement needed to foster an environment of growth, innovation, and increasing productivity. A mentor to both staff and elected members, Geoff used his knowledge and experience to implement best practice procedures across all Shire departments. Geoff was the Chief Bush Fire Control Officer at Narrogin from 1988 until 2016, a role he recommenced after his move to the Shire of Williams.

Beginning his Local Government career with the Shire of Trayning in 1997, Darren Mollenoyux joined the Shire of Bruce Rock in 2009 as Deputy Chief Executive Officer. Appointed Chief Executive Officer in 2012, Darren has made a lasting and significant contribution to the Bruce Rock community through his 15 years with the Shire. Notably, Darren was instrumental in the coordination and establishment of a new and desperately needed supermarket in the Shire, after the only grocery store in town was destroyed by fire in 2020. The extent and importance of the project was acknowledged with a Resilient Australia Award in late 2020, and Darren personally received a Change Leader Award in 2022. He has driven many major projects in the community including the Main Street Revitalisation Plan, the construction of new executive housing in the town, the development and enhancement of various recreation and sporting facilities and the comprehensive Shire rebranding program. Darren’s leadership was crucial during the 2022 bush fires in Bruce Rock and Corrigin and he played a major role in the long term rebuilding and resilience initiatives following the fires.

A classic quiet achiever, Sheri Moulds has been an outstanding Local Government employee since she commenced with the City of Geraldton-Greenough in 2007. In her role as personal assistant to the Chief Executive Officer, Sheri has worked with four CEOs and three Mayors, operating to an extremely high standard and always maintaining confidentiality. Sheri is an exemplary Local Government employee who has the ability to guide and influence people, to motivate others to act towards a common goal, to take risks, and to challenge the status quo. As well as her good humour and practical wisdom, Sheri also demonstrates courage and wisdom when tackling difficult issues and is very willing to share her views. An active volunteer in the community, Sheri also oversees and organises Council events, such as citizenship ceremonies, Australia Day functions, staff awards and Councillor dinners. She is the Chair of the City’s Administration Officers group, ensures new Council members are properly inducted and works extensively to establish and document many of the City’s policies, processes and procedures.

Dean Unsworth was appointed Chief Executive Officer of the Shire of Murray in 2007 and has led the community through a time of unprecedented transformation and development over the last 17 years. In recognition of his outstanding leadership abilities, Dean was appointed joint CEO of the Shires of Murray and Waroona in 2019, a position he held for two years. Dean has managed numerous significant community projects including the establishment of WA’s first Food Innovation Precinct in the Peel Business Park which was awarded the Economic Development Australia Award for Excellence in Economic Development through Partnerships and Collaboration in 2023. He spearheaded a range of regional tourism initiatives culminating in the town of Dwellingup being named Australia’s Top Tiny Tourism Town in 2023 and receiving accreditation as WA’s first-ever Trail Town by Trails WA. An experienced and highly respected CEO, Dean has taken on a mentoring role in the Local Government sector, providing support and knowledge to assist others whenever he can. Dean is secretary of the Peel Alliance and has served on the Transform Peel - Strategic Advisory Committee.

Beginning with the City of Stirling in 2013 as a pool lifeguard, Abraham O’Connor’s professional journey has been one of remarkable growth and dedication. Abraham is now the Senior Operations Officer – Recreation and Leisure Services, leading the Leisurepark Balga facility operations, focusing on safety, sustainability, and inclusiveness. Elected as a health and safety representative in 2021, Abraham has demonstrated unwavering dedication to improving workplace safety, advocating for the wellbeing of colleagues, and ensuring compliance with safety protocols. His proactive no-nonsense approach and commitment to self-improvement make him an invaluable asset within the City of Stirling’s safety team, and his exemplary leadership of the Leisurepark has positively impacted staff retention rates. Abraham’s unwavering dedication to the City sets an inspiring example and he regularly mentors and trains young lifeguards. Recently he worked with outreach group White Lion to engage with youths causing damage to property at the Leisure Centre, whilst also advocating for engineering improvements internally to improve safety.

Elected in 2009 as the youngest Deputy Mayor at the City of Joondalup at just 24 years of age, Liam Gobbert served with the City until 2017, where he was the only Deputy Mayor to preside at an Ordinary Council meeting. From 2022-2023, Liam was the youngest Deputy Lord Mayor of the City of Perth at 33 years old, and he remains the youngest Council Member with the City. Liam has provided leadership stability during his time with the City of Perth, is well-known for his attention to good governance processes, and has worked to refocus the City of Perth Corporate Business Plan into achievable deliverables and to support the delivery of long-term major projects. Liam represents the City of Perth on the Central Metropolitan Zone, the Local Development Assessment Panel, the Mindarie Regional Council, and the WA Planning Commission as a delegate for the metropolitan region. Liam was Vice President of the Independent Theatre Association for six years, assisting numerous community theatres to work closely with their Local Governments. He regularly volunteers with the Cancer Council and has previously undertaken the role of Youth Minister for Local Government as part of the Y’s Youth Parliament program.

Elected to the City of Mandurah in 2014 when he was just 25 years old, Peter Rogers has contributed significantly to the Mandurah community over the last decade, demonstrating his effective and respectful leadership style throughout this time. With a passion for enhancing good governance in the City, Peter has played a pivotal role in many significant programs including the development of an improved Audit and Risk Committee, the establishment of a Long-Term Financial Plan, the implementation of an improved Risk Management Policy, and the instigation of both a strategic internal audit function and a more robust and consultative policy development process. Peter was instrumental in the City of Mandurah becoming a supporting signatory to the Uluru Statement from the Heart, spearheaded the Shape Mandurah community organisation, was involved in the new Events Strategy, and has played a major role in establishing the Mandurah Matters campaign, a public consultation and visioning process which informed the development of the City of Mandurah’s Community Strategic Plan. 

A natural leader who seeks to inspire and nurture others in the industry, Donna Shaw began her career in Local Government in 2007, employed as a Planning Officer with the City of Rockingham. Donna was elected as a Councillor with the City of Armadale in 2009 at just 19 years of age, a position she held for 12 years. Donna is now the City of South Perth’s Director of Development and Community Services and has been a WALGA elected member trainer for the last three and a half years. As an advocate for Local Government, Donna has presented at a variety of events hosted by industry associations and is currently working to develop a Diploma of Local Government Planning. In her role as a Councillor with the City of Armadale, Donna was pivotal in the introduction of the City’s Urban Forest Strategy, the redevelopment of the Roleystone theatre, increasing the footpath network across the community, and the redevelopment of the Karragullen and Bedfordale volunteer bush fire stations. Donna was a member of the Metro Outer Development Assessment Panel for nine years and chaired the City of Armadale’s Development Services Committee for the majority of her tenure.