"Strange Name, Beaut Place"

Wyalkatchem is situated 194 kilometres from Perth on the Goomalling - Merredin Road, along the Pioneer Pathway. Take our less travelled and more pleasant alternative route to and from the Goldfields and the Eastern states; major access roads are weather sealed including those from Cunderdin and Tammin on the Great Eastern Highway.

Message from the Shire President

Welcome to the website for the Shire of Wyalkatchem. This website covers not only Council business, but provides information on the broader Wyalkatchem community. In 2011 Wyalkatchem faces an exciting future. With new projects on the go which will benefit our town and the surrounding regions, we are well placed to be the crossroads of the wheatbelt. Wyalkatchem has many of the advantages of the city, while retaining its special small town feel - a caring community who work with Council to make our town that beaut place with the strange name. Wide spaces, magnificent night skies, no pollution, relaxed atmosphere - come and share with us the joys of living in or visiting Wyalkatchem

Susan Bruse

Message from the Chief Executive Officer

The Local Government Act 1995 broadly describes my role as managing the day to day operations of the local government, to provide advice to the Council, and to implement decisions and policies of the Council. In doing so, I have to be very aware of the needs and expectations of the community to ensure that the services and facilities we provide meet those expectations. I must ensure that we have procedures in place that allow us to meet our statutory obligations, and I must also be aware of any external influences that may impact on Council operations.    I therefore see a very important role for myself and my staff to keep abreast of community needs, legal and statutory obligations, and other influential factors to ensure that Council, as a decision making body, is provided with information that is both accurate and professional, and serves the best interests of the community.

I am pleased to announce that the Shire’s 2011/12 Budget is a balanced budget and builds on the Shire’s tireless work over the last 18 months. The Shire has capped expenditure growth allowing for approximately $120,000 to be transferred into the Shire Reserves this financial year. Further consolidation over the next two (2) years will place the Shire in an improved position to manage its ageing assets.

There are many exciting external projects captured in the Shire’s 2011/12 Budget and Council is positive that the community will see some very tangible outcomes on the ground. Projects include:

Development of a Community Health Services Plan

• Construction of a Multi-purpose Community Building
• Significant investment in Streetscape and Tourism Infrastructure
• Restoration of Heritage Buildings
• Development of Light Industrial Land
• Continued support of the Larry Elsegood Medical Centre
• Wilson Street Footpath
• Minor Airport Capital Works

In addition, LandCorp will be releasing a minimum 7 lot residential subdivision fronting Swan Street in the 2011/12 year.

The Shire is intent on building partnerships with the community and the 2011/12 year will be very consultative resulting in the development of a Community Strategic Plan.

Where does the money go?

In addition to the above projects, the Shire provides a range of services and facilities to the Community including: Road Maintenance and Construction, Airport Infrastructure, Storm Water Drainage and Dams; Recreation Facilities; Ovals and the Pool; Health Infrastructure including financial support of the Larry Elsegood Medical Centre; Parks and Gardens and Playgrounds with play equipment; Waste Management; Joint Venture Housing; Library and Tourist Information; Halls for general use; Footpaths. The Shire provides these services to contribute to the Community you live in. These services and facilities are provided to you as a result of your annual rates bill for around the same price as your annual water bill!

 Peter Kocian

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