Mid West leader Karen Chappel has stepped down as the WA Local Government Association’s president after a four-year stint.
Having been part of WALGA since 2009, Ms Chappel’s service and dedication has been commended.
Ms Chappel finished up in her WALGA role on Wednesday, after she served the maximum two terms.
Since joining WALGA 17 years ago, Ms Chappel has held various positions across the WALGA zones and State council, including deputy of the Northern Country zone, deputy State councillor, State councillor, deputy president, acting president and president.
In addition to her tenure at WALGA, Ms Chappel is the Shire of Morawa president, a position she has held since 2009.
Nick Sloan, WALGA CEO, said Ms Chappel’s record of public service was “extraordinary” and that she sported “razor-sharp intellect, situational awareness and attention in delivering critical outcomes for the local government sector”.
“I’ve had the great privilege of being WALGA CEO since 2019 and Karen has been a constant on State council for me throughout that time,” Mr Sloan said.
“Over more than two decades of service, Karen has left a legacy defined not only by this strategic leadership and pivotal role shaping and advocating for local government, but also by the trust, admiration and respect she has earned across the sector.”
On Wednesday, Ms Chappel was succeeded by City of Stirling mayor Mark Irwin as president of WALGA — marking the transition from a country leader to a city one.
Ms Chappel said serving as WALGA president had been “one of the greatest privileges” of her life.
“As my time as WALGA president ends, I want to take the opportunity to pause and reflect on what has been a challenging but incredibly rewarding four years in the role,” she said.
Ms Chappel said she genuinely cared about the people of WA and believed that good leadership needed to be based on listening, understanding and delivering for the community.
“As my term as president comes to an end, I will continue to be a strong advocate for the important role local government serves,” she said.
“I look forward to seeing the sector continue to thrive as we face new and exciting challenges together.”
https://thewest.com.au/news/geraldton-guardian/end-of-an-era-walga-bids-farewell-to-outgoing-president-long-term-association-member-karen-chappel-c-21829703
