Published on Wednesday, 24 September 2025 at 12:49:23 PM
The Shire of Dardanup has welcomed the announcement from the State Government that our community will benefit from one of the newly allocated Community Emergency Services Managers (CESM) positions in Western Australia.
Shire President Cr Tyrrell Gardiner said this outcome follows strong and persistent lobbying by Shire staff and councillors, who have long advocated for more on-the-ground support to help keep our community safe.
He said the CESM program is a vital part of how local governments prepare for and respond to emergencies – working closely with our volunteer bushfire brigades, community groups and agencies to make sure we are ready before, during and after an incident.
“This is fantastic news for our community and volunteers, the additional CESM will make a real difference locally,” Cr Gardiner said.
“We all know how important it is to be prepared, especially as we head into bushfire season.
“Our CESM will play such a critical role in supporting our volunteers, coordinating resources and ensuring our Shire is ready to respond.
“Council and staff have worked hard to push for more resources in this space, so to see this outcome is really rewarding.
“At the end of the day, it’s about making sure our community is as safe and supported as possible.”
Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) South West Regional Superintendent Matt Folini said the CESM announcement reflects a strong commitment to the South West.
“The CESM role is an acknowledgment from the State Government of the need for further investment into the South West’s emergency management sector
“The position will only strengthen the relationships between the Shire and DFES and will allow us to improve and expand the suite of Prevention, Preparedness, Response, and Recovery (PPRR) activities for its communities.”
Dardanup Chief Bush Fire Control Officer Chris Hynes also welcomed the announcement, saying it would provide vital support for local brigades and the wider community.
“This is a very positive step for our Shire,” he said.
“Our volunteers already do an incredible job, and this additional role will provide them with extra backing and resources, while also strengthening collaboration between brigades, DFES and Shire staff.
“It builds on the great work already being done and ensures we are even better placed to protect our community into the future.”
Collie Preston member Jodie Hanns MLA said for more than 30 years, the CESM program has delivered for regional WA communities.
"I'm proud to be part of a government that is bolstering support in our regions as the bushfire season approaches – support I have consistently fought for on behalf of our community,” she said.
"I want to thank the local volunteer and career firefighters who work hard to protect us day in day out."
Cr Gardiner said the Shire thanks the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES), State Government and Collie Preston member Jodie Hanns MLA for their support in securing this additional role and looks forward to welcoming the new CESM to the team.
The Shire of Dardanup will benefit from one of the newly allocated Community Emergency Services Managers (CESM) positions announced this week by the State Government. Pictured are (from left) Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) South West District Officer Ricky Southgate, Dardanup Chief Bush Fire Control Officer Chris Hynes and Shire of Dardanup Director Development Services Ashwin Nair.
Media contact: Tahnia Creedon, Communications Officer | tahnia.creedon@dardanup.wa.gov.au | 0436 942 509.
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