Shire of Wandering

11/06/2026

NOMINATIONS ARE COMING IN

Nominations for the role of Councillor at the July 2026 Extraordinary election have started to come in.

Mr. Brendan Whitely has now successfully nominated for a role as Councillor in our July election. Brendan's profile can be found on our website

09/06/2026

CALL FOR NOMINATIONS
An In-Person Election will be held on Friday 31 July 2026 in the Shire of Wandering to fill the following vacancy:
1 Councillor - Term until October 2027

If you’re committed to shaping the future, representing local voices, and driving the strategic direction of the Shire, we encourage you to nominate. This is your opportunity to help guide growth, support community priorities, and play an active role in building a resilient and vibrant future for our Shire.

Nominations Open tomorrow Wednesday, 10 June 2026.
Nominations Close at 4:00pm Wednesday, 17 June 2026.

Nominations must be lodged with the Returning Officer at any time during the above period by arrangement.

Full details about eligibility and nomination procedures can be obtained by contacting the Returning Officer, Dr. Alistair Pinto on (08) 6828 1800 or from the Shire website.

I am happy to have a no obligation, in confidence, friendly chat with anyone interesting in nominating but unsure of the role and responsibilities of becoming a councillor.

Dr. Alistair Pinto
Chief Executive Officer
Shire of Wandering

08/06/2026

Public Notice....

Power outage today from 12pm until close at the Shire administration office (only).

This will affect most front counter and Australia Post services, parcel collection is not affected and is available.

We apologise for any inconveniences.
Shire of Wandering.

05/06/2026

Condolence Notice

It is with great sadness that we acknowledge the sudden passing of Mr. Bruno Pinto, the beloved father of our CEO, Dr. Alistair Pinto.

Many of us had the privilege of meeting Alistair's Dad during his visit to Wandering with his wife late last year. He was warmly welcomed at several community events while spending time with Alistair, Kally, and their children. Those who met him will remember his kindness, warmth, and the pride he clearly held for his family.

On behalf of the Shire Council and all Shire of Wandering employees, I extend our sincere and heartfelt condolences to Alistair, Kally, their children, and the entire Pinto family. The loss of a father and grandfather is deeply felt, and our thoughts are with them as they come to terms with this unexpected loss.

I am sure the wider Wandering community joins us in offering support, sympathy, and friendship to the Pinto family during this difficult time.

May Mr. Pinto rest in peace, and may the love of family, friends, and community provide comfort and strength in the days ahead.

With deepest sympathy,

Sheryl Little
Shire President
5 June 2026

04/06/2026

Public Notice......

Please be advised that the Volunteer Bushfire Brigades intend to conduct a planned burn on Saturday 6th June 2026, dependent on weather conditions. The prescribed burn will take place around the Private Cemetery located on Schorers Road (map below)

Important safety information

1. Avoid entering the burn area during and post planned burn.
2. Expect smoke in the surrounds.
3. If you are sensitive to smoke, please stay indoors, shut all doors and windows and turn off air conditioners.
4. If you are traveling through the area, please turn your headlights on and drive safely to the conditions.
5. For the most up-to-date information and alerts please visit Emergency WA or download the App.
https://www.emergency.wa.gov.au/

Shire of Wandering

29/05/2026

CALL FOR NOMINATIONS
Shire of Wandering

An In-Person Election will be held on Friday 31 July 2026 in the Shire of Wandering to fill the following vacancy:
1 Councillor - Term until October 2027

Nominations Open on Wednesday, 10 June 2026.
Nominations Close at 4:00pm Wednesday, 17 June 2026.

Nominations must be lodged with the Returning Officer at any time during the above period by arrangement.

Where to Nominate: at 22 Watts Street, Wandering WA 6308.

Nomination Requirements
Candidates are required to lodge nominations with the Returning Officer:
• Nominations must be on a prescribed nomination form available from the Shire office or website.
• a single A4 page profile of not more than 1,000 characters (including spaces) containing information about the candidate.
• a nomination deposit of $100.
• a recent passport-sized photograph (optional).
• in addition to your A4 profile, you may provide additional information that you consider to be relevant to your candidature (optional). This written statement cannot be more than 2,000 characters (including spaces), must be in the English language and is for publication on the local government’s official website only.

Information
Full details about eligibility and nomination procedures can be obtained by contacting the Returning Officer, Dr. Alistair Pinto on (08) 6828 1800 or from the Shire website www.wandering.wa.gov.au.

DR ALISTAIR PINTO
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
SHIRE OF WANDERING

The Shire of Wandering is a small rural authority located in the Central South region of Western Australia. Located some 120 km South-East of Perth, it is a short yet scenic drive off the Albany Highway past many picturesque fields and homes. With a total area encompassing around 1, 955 km, Wande...

22/05/2026

LOCAL GOVERNMENT EXTRA ORDINARY ELECTION
CLOSE OF ENROLMENTS
ROLL CLOSE: 5:00 PM Thursday 04 June 2026

You may be eligible to be enrolled to vote in the local government elections on 31 July 2026 if you live in or are an owner or occupier of rateable property in the Shire of Wandering.

Residents
You are automatically enrolled to vote if you are on the State Electoral Roll as at 5:00pm Thursday 04 June 2026. If you are not already on the State Electoral Roll and meet the eligibility criteria, or if you have changed address recently, you must complete an enrolment form.

Enrolment Forms
You can enrol or update your details online, or download an enrolment form, via the Western Australian Electoral Commission website (www.elections.wa.gov.au/enrol). Forms are also available from the Australian Electoral Commission (www.aec.gov.au) Enrolments and updates must be completed and received by 5:00pm Thursday 04 June 2026.

Enrolment Forms – Non- Resident Owners and Occupiers Only
Enrolment forms can be obtained from the Shire office and must be lodged with the Chief Executive Officer by 5:00pm Thursday 04 June 2026.

For further details visit the Shire website - www.wandering.wa.gov.au

Voting gives you the opportunity to choose who represents you in Federal, State and local governments. The WA Electoral Commission works with the Australian Electoral Commission to make it easy for you to enrol once for all federal, State and local government elections. Who can enrol? Enrolment is c...

15/05/2026

MEDIA RELEASE - Continued Advocacy for Wheatbelt Secondary Freight Network Funding

Shire of Wandering President, Cr. Sheryl Little, has reaffirmed the Shire’s strong support for the Wheatbelt Secondary Freight Network (WSFN), recognising its critical role in strengthening regional connectivity, economic productivity and road safety across the Wheatbelt.

Cr. Little said the Shire acknowledges the recent update provided by the WSFN Program Director regarding the current status of funding for the program. While funding for the 2026/2027 financial year will not proceed as initially anticipated, the Shire remains encouraged by the ongoing work to finalise a comprehensive business case and secure funding from 2027/2028 onwards.

“The Wheatbelt Secondary Freight Network is a vital initiative for our region,” Cr. Little said. “It underpins the efficient movement of grain, livestock and other commodities, while also supporting tourism and ensuring safe and reliable access for our communities.”

Cr. Little noted that despite the temporary delay in funding, the WSFN Steering Committee has positioned the program to continue operating, with several construction projects already funded for the coming year and a clear pathway forward.

“The resilience and forward planning demonstrated by the WSFN is commendable. It ensures that the program remains active and ready to deliver once funding is secured,” she said.

“Investment in road infrastructure is an investment in our regional future,” Cr. Little said. “Well-maintained and efficient transport networks reduce costs for farmers, improve safety for road users, and enhance access for visitors travelling throughout the Wheatbelt.”

Cr. Little also emphasised the importance of continued advocacy at both State and Federal levels.
“We will continue to strongly advocate for the WSFN and highlight its proven benefits whenever opportunities arise. It is essential that decision-makers understand the significant economic and community value this program delivers,” she said.

The Shire of Wandering will work closely with other local governments and regional stakeholders to support the finalisation of the WSFN business case and to ensure the program remains a priority for future funding considerations.
ENDS

Media contact:
Dr. Alistair Pinto, Chief Executive Officer
Shire of Wandering
P: (08) 6828 1800 | E: [email protected]

08/05/2026

MEDIA RELEASE
Extraordinary Election to Be Held Following Councillor Resignation
The Shire of Wandering advises the community that an extraordinary election will be held to fill the vacancy on Council following the recent resignation of Cr. Jennings.
Shire President Cr. Sheryl Little said the election is required under the Local Government Act 1995 and has been confirmed by the Western Australian Electoral Commission (WAEC).
“The WAEC has confirmed that, in accordance with Section 4.8 of the Local Government Act 1995, the Shire of Wandering is required to hold an extraordinary election to fill the vacancy,” Cr. Little said.
“The legislation does not allow Council to carry the vacancy through to the next ordinary local government election, even if Council were to resolve to reduce councillor numbers at that time.”
The extraordinary election will be held on Friday, 31 July 2026 and will be conducted as an in person election.
Cr. Little explained that under Section 4.61(4) of the Act, postal elections must be conducted by the WA Electoral Commission. If an election is to be conducted in house by the local government, it must be undertaken as an in person election.
“To keep costs manageable for the community, Council has resolved to conduct the extraordinary election in house,” Cr. Little said. “As part of this decision, the Shire’s Chief Executive Officer will be appointed as the Returning Officer.”
Further information regarding candidate nominations, voting arrangements and key dates will be made available to the community in the coming weeks.
For updates, residents are encouraged to monitor the Shire’s website and official communication channels.
ENDS

08/05/2026

Join Our Team – Two Fantastic Opportunities at the Shire of Wandering

The Shire of Wandering is pleased to announce two exciting employment opportunities for individuals looking to make a positive contribution to our community.

We are currently recruiting for:
1. Waste Services Operator – Wandering Transfer Station
2. Executive Assistant to the Chief Executive Officer

These roles offer the chance to work in a supportive, close‑knit local government environment while delivering essential services and professional support to the Shire and its community.

Whether you are an experienced local government professional or looking to take your first step into a rewarding local government career, we strongly encourage you to get in touch and apply.

Further information, including position descriptions and application details, can be found on our website:
👉 www.wandering.wa.gov.au/employment/

Come and be part of a team that values adaptability, accountability and service to the community.

Please register your interest in applying for employment with the Shire of Wandering. Don't forget to detail your skills and experience, your resume and whether you are looking for casual or permanent work.