Published on Friday, 1 May 2026 at 3:56:50 PM
A broad range of strategic, planning, infrastructure and community matters were progressed at the Ordinary Council Meeting on Wednesday, 29 April 2026.
The following provides a summary of the main decisions and directions agreed by Council.
From the Shire President Cr Tyrrell Gardiner:
Progressing regional priorities and partnerships
Regional collaboration took centre stage as Councillors moved to strengthen the Shire’s ongoing involvement across sport and recreation, tourism, waste management and economic development. The item focused on the Bunbury Geographe Group of Councils and the Bunbury Geographe Tourism Partnership, including updated governance arrangements, confirmation of the Shire’s role as host council, and proposed budget contributions for the 2026/27 financial year. Council supported the recommendations, reinforcing its commitment to coordinated regional advocacy and shared economic outcomes.
Planning for rural residential growth – Dardanup West
Future growth in Dardanup West was considered through a Local Planning Scheme Amendment for Lot 564 Garvey Road, proposing a rezoning from Rural to Rural Residential. Following public and referral agency consultation, Council resolved to adopt the scheme amendment with modifications so it can progress to the Western Australian Planning Commission for final consideration. In doing so, Council made it clear that it does not support the existing concept plan, noting that future design, layout and technical matters are to be addressed through subsequent subdivision and approval processes.
Emergency management capability
Strengthening the Shire’s emergency management arrangements was the focus of a report outlining the proposed establishment of a Community Emergency Services Manager (CESM) role and a Memorandum of Understanding with the Department of Fire and Emergency Services. The motion was moved by Council, progressing efforts to enhance emergency preparedness, brigade support and coordination across prevention, response and recovery activities.
Ferguson Road landscaping and road safety
Community feedback and safety considerations shaped Council’s discussion on the Ferguson Road Landscaping project in Dardanup. Councillors revisited outcomes from consultation, site visits and a recent workshop, which highlighted broader concerns around traffic speeds and pedestrian safety near the town centre and school. Council resolved to defer the landscaping works until the 2026/27 financial year to allow for preparation of a Local Area Traffic Management Plan, further investigation into traffic calming and crossing options, and refinement of the landscaping design informed by those findings.
Waste Transfer Station lease security
Long‑term continuity of waste services was addressed through a motion relating to lease arrangements for the Crooked Brook Waste Transfer Station. Council approved a short‑term lease extension to ensure uninterrupted service delivery and authorised officers to negotiate and finalise a longer‑term lease, providing operational certainty for both the Shire and the community.
Integrated Planning and Governance
Minutes of the April Integrated Planning Committee meeting were endorsed by Council as part of the progression of the 2026/27 Annual Budget process. Council also confirmed the appointment of the Independent Chair and Deputy Chair for the Audit Risk and Improvement Committee.
Strategic Community Plan – next phase
Looking ahead to the Shire’s long‑term future, Councillors considered the draft framework for the 2026-2036 Strategic Community Plan. Developed through workshops with elected members and staff, the framework sets out a proposed vision, guiding aspirations and key priority objectives. Council endorsed the framework to now progress to community consultation, marking the next step in shaping the Shire’s long‑term strategic direction.
For more Council Meeting outcomes, please visit: Past Council Meetings
Please note the official Council Meeting minutes and recording will be uploaded to the Shire website within 14 days of the meeting, in line with the Local Government Act 1995.
Media contact: Tahnia Creedon, Coordinator Communications and Marketing | tahnia.creedon@dardanup.wa.gov.au | 0436 942 509.
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