New Shire President for the Shire of Manjimup

MEDIA RELEASE - New Shire President for the Shire of Manjimup

March 2017

Prior to the commencement of the Ordinary Council Meeting held on 2 March 2017, Councillor Wade DeCampo stood down from his long-standing position as Shire President.Following a vote by Council, the Hon. Councillor Paul Omodei has been elected the Shire President.

In accordance with the Local Government Act 1995, Councillors followed a process of nomination and the Shire President was then 'elected by the Council from amongst the Councillors'. Votes were counted by Andrew Campbell, Chief Executive Officer of the Shire of Manjimup, in the presence of Council, officers and the gallery. Mr Campbell then facilitated a declaration by Cr Omodei, prior to him taking up his position in the office of Shire President for that meeting.

Former Shire President Wade DeCampo, who has held the position of Shire President since 2005, has remained on Council representing the West Ward (formerly the ward of Pemberton). Cr DeCampo explained that his time as Shire President has been challenging, rewarding and enjoyable. "The most difficult test has been striking a balance between representing the whole region as President, whilst still aiming to get the best possible outcomes for the town which I am most passionate about," explained Cr DeCampo. "Despite this, I believe I've represented the Shire and the town of Pemberton equally, and to my fullest."

Cr DeCampo said that the many successes of the region whilst he was President are attributable to his fellow Councillors and Shire Officers, both past and present. "There is no doubt that Cr Omodei is going to do the region proud as Shire President. He has the support of a wonderful team behind him, not to mention a strong and faithful community. I wish him the very best; it is an honour to bestow the privilege of being Shire President to him," Cr DeCampo concluded.

Cr Omodei will remain as the Shire President until the Local Government Elections take place in October of this year.

-ENDS-

Authorised by Andrew Campbell, Chief Executive Officer

Contact Gina Nieuwendyk, Coordinator Communication and Executive Support

Contact: 9771 7777