“Five years ago Kojonup Shire Council employed consultants to review the running of the Shire,” said Acting Shire President, Councillor George Bailye. “As a result, it was decided that a Chief Executive Officer would be employed who would spend 70 per cent of time on economic development initiatives and 30 per cent on the traditional CEO role.”
Council also adopted a new mission statement, ‘a strong progressive community thriving and expanding to maintain a high quality of life’.
“I have a strong belief that the only towns in rural Australia that will survive are those working actively at ensuring their survival,” Councillor Bailye said. “Governments are promoting a trend towards centralisation into large cities and regional centres at the expense of small rural towns.
“Kojonup has been reasonably successful in our emphasis on economic development. The CEO, Wally Lenyszyn, has been very astute in sourcing funding and grants. For example our Federation project, Kodja Place, has attracted $1.3 million in various grants.”
He said that Kojonup is holding its own in population terms unlike many other rural towns.
Council has identified aged care and accommodation as an opportunity. Fifteen years ago many people retired to the coast, now more are retiring into town. To support older people, Council has built individual units for older people to live independently and operates the 22 bed Springhaven Lodge. The nearby Kojonup Hospital also has a six bed frail aged unit.
“People retiring here have various support options available, if needed in the future,” Councillor Bailye said. “Medical services as well as entertainment and recreational opportunities are also readily available. With many people nervous about retiring into cities, Kojonup is a safe alternative with all the necessary support services.
“Located on a major highway, Kojonup offers many advantages as a stop over point for travellers. As well as tourism, Council is also working to advance and assist the agricultural sector. The proposed Centre for Soil Excellence is a great opportunity, building on the Shire’s strong sheep, grain and horticultural industries.
“We have a very active voluntary sector. With over 90 groups, per capita, Kojonup has a very large number of organisations, sporting clubs and service clubs. Perhaps the most impressive attribute of Kojonup is its strong community spirit and preparedness to be involved and get things done.”
