Published on Wednesday, 3 September 2025 at 3:30:00 PM
Below is the Shire President’s Recap of the Ordinary Council Meeting (OCM) that was held on Wednesday 27 August 2025.
Messages & Announcements from the Shire President
I’d like to acknowledge Mr Russell Jones from the Shire’s Works & Services Department, who has recently retired after nearly 50 years of loyal and dedicated service, strong leadership, and outstanding work ethic. Since starting his career with the Shire as a 21-year-old general hand through to now, Russell didn’t just do the job – he’s helped shape a community, and the legacy he’s built will be felt for generations. Russel has, and always will be, an inspiration to us all, and it’s been an honour for all who have had the opportunity to work alongside him. On behalf of Council and the Shire, we wish Russell all the best for the future and offer our sincerest gratitude and appreciation for everything he has given to Council, staff, and the community.
I’d also like to acknowledge the efforts of everyone involved in the 30th annual Balingup Medieval Carnivale and Feast which took place the weekend before this month’s meeting. It was a great event and the turnout was incredible, which wouldn’t have been possible without the dedication of the Balingup Medieval Carnivale Committee, volunteers, and Shire staff.
Item 9.1.1: Donnybrook Clock Tower Proposal
At item 9.1.1, Council received a Proposal and Business Plan for the Donnybrook Clock Tower Project, acknowledging support for the initiative in principle. This Project proposes to provide a landmark structure that recognises the early pioneers who developed quarries and worked with Donnybrook stone to construct numerous buildings in Donnybrook, and around WA. It is intended to be constructed using Donnybrook stone at a preferred site in Ayers Garden (SW Hwy) where the “Quercus Palustris” tree was planted by the Donnybrook Community in recognition of the redevelopment of the central business district.
The proposed location will require removal of the “Quercus Palustris” tree and plaque that commemorates the redevelopment of the central business district in 2000. Prior to further progress, Council resolved to have the Proposal and Business Plan issued for public comment, ensuring opportunity for the community to have their say – further information will be shared once the consultation commences.
Item 9.2.3: Report of review of Local Laws
At item 9.2.3, Council received a report outlining the review of several of the Shire’s Local Laws, which included public submissions, and resolved the following outcomes in accordance with the Local Government Act 1995.
The following Local Laws are to remain unchanged:
- Activities on Thoroughfares and Trading in Thoroughfares and Public Places Local Law 2000
- Animals, Environment and Nuisance Local Law 2017
- Cemeteries Local Law 2008
- Local Laws Relating to Fencing 1999
- Health Local Laws 1999
- Meeting Procedures Local Law 2017
- Outdoor Eating Areas Local Law 2013
- Waste Local Law 2017
The following Local Laws are to be amended with a further report to be presented to commence the legislative process:
- Bush Fire Brigades Local Law 2000
- Cat Local Law 2016
- Dog Local Law 2000
- Extractive Industries Local Law 1998
- Local Government Property Local Law 2000
- Parking and Parking Facilities Local Law 2000
Item 9.2.4: Code of Conduct for Council Members, Committee Members and Candidates
At item 9.2.4, Council adopted the amendments to the Code of Conduct for Council Members, Committee Members and Candidates, which establishes standards that reflect the core principals of governance. The Code promotes transparency by requiring Council Members, Committee Members and Candidates to act with integrity and accountability in their decision-making and interactions.
This review has implemented several new sections which provide background and context for the Code. Importantly, the Code now includes the Shire’s Organisational Values, endorsed by Council at our July 2025 Ordinary Council Meeting and represents a further step toward embedding our values into our organisational culture.
Item 9.2.5: Talison Stakeholder Reference Committee
At item 9.2.5, Council resolved to appoint the following Elected Member and Proxy to represent the Shire’s interests as a Talison Stakeholder Reference Committee (SRC) Member:
- Cr Grant Patrick
- Cr Anita Lindemann (proxy)
The Reference Group provides a regular forum for Talison to inform, consult, and engage with community representatives, and will meet every second month (six times per year) to promote mutual understanding and transparency between Talison and its neighbouring communities.
Item 9.2.6: WALGA Local Government Convention and Annual General Meeting 2025
At item 9.2.6, Council authorised the attendence of the following to the WA Local Government Association (WALGA) Local Government Convention, which is to be held in Perth from Monday, 22 September to Wednesday 24 September 2025, inclusive of the Annual General Meeting held on Tuesday, 23 September 2025.
- Cr Vivienne MacCarthy, Shire President (voting delegate)
- Cr Anita Lindemann (voting delegate)
- Cr Lisa Glover (observer/Proxy voting delegate)
- Mr Nicholas O’Connor, Chief Executive Officer
The theme for the 2025 Local Government Convention is “Lean into Legacy”, which explores how the decisions made today shape the foundations of tomorrow. With a focus on reflective, current, and future legacy, the Convention aims to inspire new ideas, deepen community engagement, and foster collaboration across the Local Government sector.
Item 9.2.7: Date Change – September Ordinary Council Meeting
At item 9.2.7, Council amended the scheduled meeting date for the OCM to be held in September to avoid conflict with the WALGA Local Government Convention, which is taking place from 22 to 24 September. The OCM was rescheduled to take place on Thursday 25 September and commence as usual from 5:00pm – the Agenda Briefing Session is unaffected, and will still be taking place the week before on Wednesday 17 September.
Item 9.3.1: Asset Optimisation Project – Community Consultation Report & Proposed Land Sale
At item 9.3.1, Council received a report presenting the outcomes of the community consultation regarding the proposed sale of various Shire-controlled land parcels undertaken in July 2025, which included online surveys, Shire social media posts, website alerts, and public notices. The consultation was part of the Asset Optimisation Project (AOP), which aims to explore underutilised assets for potential alternative use or disposal with the aim to improve financial sustainability.
Survey responses and engagement statistics indicate that while 1,835 individuals were reached, only 67 submitted responses. In community engagement terms, this represents a passive endorsement or lack of concern from the broader community. Below are the main themes identified from the 67 written comments received:
- Opposition to selling land currently used by the Wellington District Pony Club, citing ongoing use, historical significance, and lack of consultation.
- Walter Trigwell Park is repeatedly mentioned as a cherished community space, believed to be donated for public use, with concerns about disrespecting its legacy.
- Mixed views on Lot 126 & Lot 189, with some support for housing development if land is unused, but others urging caution and strategic planning.
Following considered debate, Council resolved the following:
- To not commence the sale process for Lot 3122 Donnybrook-Boyup Brook Road, Beelerup (previously known as the Wellington District Pony Club).
- To commence the sale process for Lot 21 Reserve Street, Donnybrook.
- To commence the sale process for Lots 12 (102) & 13 (104) Trigwell Street Easter, Donnybrook, and to liaise with the Trigwell family to identify an appropriate alternative memorial to honour Walter Trigwell.
- Noted the feedback on the proposed sale of Lot 126 Yelverton Street & Lot 189 Union Street, Donnybrook, and will consider the conversion of the Crown Land to freehold land as part of the next phase of the AOP.
Item 12.1.2: RFT 06-2425 – Smith and Timms Street Donnybrook – Road Upgrade
Item 12.1.2 was considered by Council behind closed doors as a confidential item. It was resolved that the contract for RFT 06-2425 – Smith and Timms Street Donnybrook – Road and Drainage Upgrade be awarded to Sully Civil Pty Ltd. This particular project is part of the Shire’s 6-Year Forward Roadworks Program, and will renew the roads in this area plus improve the management of stormwater runoff in the catchment.
Thank you for reading this Recap of key items from the August 2025 OCM. You can browse information and documents related to Council Meetings via the Shire website. For further details on the items mentioned above, please refer to the reports and corresponding attachments within the Minutes of this Meeting.
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