25/04/06
The progressive farming community in the Great Southern has reached a century in local government.
At the centenary celebrations for the Shire of Tambellup today, Local Government and Regional Development Minister Jon Ford congratulated the shire and its past and present councillors on their contribution to the town's rich tradition and history.
"Today marks a significant milestone for the Shire of Tambellup," Mr Ford said.
"The shire was gazetted on October 13, 1905, with the first meeting being held on April 7, 1906.
"One hundred years later the shire continues to work hard to provide a range of important services, including ongoing improvements to its community's facilities and infrastructure.
"It has seen many significant achievements including the construction of the community sportsground and pavilion in the 1940s, (which was financed locally and work carried out by volunteer labour after the war), and the recovery efforts by the community to overcome major flooding between 1955 and 1982."
Shire of Tambellup and Broomehill CEO Joanne Trezona said reaching 100 years demonstrated just one of the many goals that a strong community spirit could achieve.
"Tambellup's motto is 'The Town of Friendship' and this stands not only for visitors to our district but also for our residents," Ms Trezona said.
"The Tambellup district was formerly part of the Shire of Broomehill and, coincidently, more than 100 years later in November, 2005 the Shires of Broomehill and Tambellup signed an agreement to resource-share a chief executive officer."
Ms Trezona said the shared CEO arrangement between Shires of Tambellup and Broomehill eliminated the duplication of services and had brought many other benefits, such as reduced costs to the council.
Mr Ford said the century also highlighted the importance of local government in the community.
"The shire will celebrate a century in local government by continuing to promote its current range of services and plans for the future," he said.
"The celebrations include a range of activities including a ANZAC day memorial service, lunch and presentation of the Community Awards."
For further information please contact the Shire of Tambellup on 9825 1140 or http://www.tambellup.wa.gov.au
Minister's office: 9213 7200
