Council Elections 2023: Who has put their hand up to be a Waroona Shire councillor?

On October 21, voters in the Shire of Waroona will find out who will serve on council for the next four years.

It is set to be a tight race, with five candidates vying for the four council positions up for grabs.

All but one serving councillor have put their hands up for another term, with Cr Laurie Snell retiring after 12 years.

Last week, we approached all candidates with three questions. This is how they responded.

Larry Scott

Why are you running for council?

I previously served on council for 14 years whilst still working and found it a little difficult to allocate the time required. I now work only part time and therefore have the time to devote to council duties. In the time since retiring from council I realized that I had lost track of developments in the shire and now wish to rejoin council and impart my valuable and experienced knowledge.

What experience do you bring to council?

The experience of serving on council for a period of 14 years which included two terms as Deputy President. I therefore have a very good understanding of council function and can bring valuable experience. I have lived in Waroona for 45 years including as the proprietor of Waroona Pharmacy for 30 years, so I have wide experience of business in town. I am a proud long serving member of the Waroona Lions Club for some 45 years and have had pleasure of assisting members of the community in their varied requests over this time.

What will be your priorities if elected to the council for the next four years?

My main priority would be to welcome and encourage development in town and the shire but work very hard to help maintain the small town atmosphere we enjoy. Development of land suitable for commercial purposes should be a priority. I however consider that development of land suitable for residential use should be the highest priority. There is currently high demand for building blocks and this demand is expected to increase over time. Increasing the rate base is imperative to providing the necessary funds for the Shire to function effectively. As a councillor, as previously, I would be available and willing to discuss any issues with residents and assist in moving forward.

Charlie Clarke

Why are you running for council?

Our region has many fantastic opportunities to take advantage of in the coming years, including tourism opportunities that showcase our beautiful landscapes. Improving facilities that encourage and assist job growth and local businesses is a priority. I am running for the Shire of Waroona Council to give our community a voice in how we can make the most of these opportunities. Volunteering has always been important to me Preston Beach VBFB member, Volunteer Beach Ranger and Foodbank Peel. This enabled me to meet amazing likeminded individuals, ensuring the community stays vibrant. I know the importance of connection to community. As a regional Shire our community needs people like me to speak up and support when needed.

What experience do you bring to council?

I have been involved in many work related, sports and volunteer associations/committees, as Chair/Executive and member capacity. It has given me experiences that I will bring as a councillor and that is what encourages me to get involved in local government. After 44 years of working in the region I’ve retired from being a Mechanical Fitter. I have the time and energy to commit fully to the role to ensure that I can undergo Council activities without work getting in the way.

What will be your priorities if elected to the council for the next four years?

If elected to council my priorities would be to ensure we grow our community, showcase our beautiful region, and be a strong voice for the entire Shire which includes Preston Beach, Lake Clifton, Wagerup and Hamel. Getting our fair share of funding from both State and Federal governments, this will assist local businesses and grow our community together while maintaining the great spirit of the region.

Vincenzo Vitale

Why are you running for council?

I have nominated for Council to ensure our Shire progresses as a viable and sustainable community through business and economic development and balancing that to ensure we maintain the rural lifestyle we enjoy. Having served for many years as a volunteer in sporting groups I decided to be more involved in the community

What experience do you bring to council?

For the past four years I have served the community as a Shire of Waroona Councillor. During this time, Council have committed to deliver some very exciting projects and I would like to continue and see them through to completion. Although challenging, it has been very rewarding. Serving on Council for the past four years I have been part of a very proactive team that has been able to apply for and receive external funding and grants for projects such as the Community Precinct, which is now in construction, approved Drakesbrook Weir upgrades and future walk trails. Along with these projects there are also plans for Preston Beach that are currently being discussed. This project is also externally funded. With this funding and grants we have been able to alleviate financial pressures on the Shire and the community.

What will be your priorities if elected to the council for the next four years?

Priorities for me moving forward include the consideration of future planning. Residential subdivisions, or lack of, is fast becoming an issue and is of high importance. The use or non use of the empty business buildings in Waroona also needs to be addressed. In the longer term I believe that co-location of our sporting clubs is an important consideration that warrants exploring further. As well as delivering on economic growth it is vital that our emergency services are continually supported. I am extremely appreciative of the services these groups provide and I am in full support of their needs.

John Mason and Karen Odorisio were contacted for inclusion in this story