West Arthur council get revamp with new president, deputy and councillors around the table in no-vote election

The Shire of West Arthur had a council chamber revamp following a special meeting last month that appointed a new president and deputy while also welcoming fresh councillors. Voters in the Wheatbelt town prevented a trip to the polls with all four vacant roles being filled unopposed. Incumbents Karen Harrington and Duncan South were elected as shire president and deputy respectively on October 23, after reclaiming their seats around the table for their second term unopposed. New councillors Natalie O’Neill, a Darkan cafe owner and town newcomer, and farmer Helen Lubcke were also sworn in to their new positions during the meeting. All four will serve until October 20, 2029. In office they will joined former president Neil Morrell, who opted to step down, and Crs Graeme Peirce and Russell Prowse. Retiring Crs Robyn Lubcke and Adam Squires were thanked for their service during the meeting. The last election in the Shire of West Arthur that saw more candidates nominating than positions available was in 2013, when five people stood for four roles.