Augusta Margaret River voters have chosen Julia Meldrum as the first popularly elected Shire President in the Local Government Election held over the weekend, with a voter turnout rate of 35.0 per cent.
In the councillor election, the three highest polling candidates were Nicki Jones, Paula Cristoffanini and Kylie Kennaugh who will each serve a four-year term on the council.
The fourth-highest polling councillor candidate Greg Boland has been elected to fill the vacancy created by Ms Meldrum’s election as Shire President will hold office for two years, being the remainder of Ms Meldrum’s tenure.
Cr Meldrum said it was an honour and privilege to be selected by her community for the role of Shire President.
“I’m excited and committed to work with our engaged community to build resilience and connectedness as we face various challenges that are occurring now and those that are in front of us.
“Now, more than ever, is the time to enable and support capacity building, resilience, and strength within our local community, and support the community in building a future that is bright and balanced for our children and grandchildren.
“I’d like to thank Paula Cristoffanini for her last two years as the leader of our council during some challenging times. Her leadership and advocacy for our Shire has been commendable,” Julia said.
It is the first time the public have been able to vote a Shire President into office following reforms to WA’s Local Government Act. Previously the position was elected from within Council.
The reforms also mean the council will now consist of one Shire President and a total of seven councillors, instead of seven councillors including the Shire President.
