Published on Monday, 15 June 2026 at 1:39:02 PM
Two of Goomalling’s very own have been recognised at WALGA's Local Government Honour Awards held on Friday, 12 June 2026 at the WA Museum Boola Bardip.
Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Natalie Bird received the Merit Award in recognition of notable contributions and service to WALGA, Local Government and/or the Local Government sector.
Natalie began her career with the Shire in 1989, progressing from front counter and reception duties to senior management positions. Throughout her 37 years of continuous and exemplary service, Natalie has made a profound and lasting contribution to the Shire, ensuring organisational resilience and stability, while also driving enhanced service delivery.
A champion of the Goomalling community, Natalie has volunteers in community organisations for many years, working to strengthen local groups, support local economic development, and maintain vibrant sporting and social opportunities for residents. Her tireless efforts have helped safeguard vital services and ensured the long-term wellbeing and sustainability of the Goomalling community.
Ex Shire President, Barry Haywood received the Eminent Service Award in recognition of significant and distinguished participation and contribution to WLAGA, Local Government and/or Local Government sector and demonstrated record of leadership and commitment to Local Government.
With more than two decades of service to the Goomalling community, Barry was elected to Council in 2023, serving as Deputy President in 2013, and elected Shire President from 2015 - 2023. Committed to Local Government, regional advocacy and community wellbeing, Barry remained on Council for two years after his retirement from the Shire President’s role, to ensure a smooth transition for the incoming Shire President and to mentor new Councillors, helping to build community confidence, Elected Member capacity and strong governance within the Shire.
Throughout his 22 years of dedicated service to the Shire of Goomalling, Barry presided over major infrastructure projects, including establishing the Council -owned medical centre and securing services of a doctor for the Shire. He spearheaded the development of the Goomalling Sports and Community centre, was an active member of the Local Emergency Managmeent Committee, and served for many years as a volunteer Bush Fire Control Officer.
Barry served as an inaugural member of the Wheatbelt Secondary Freight Network Steering Committee, which involved one of the regions’s most significant collaborative freight projects. He was Chair of the Avon Regional Road Group, contributed to the Avon Regional Organisation of Council’s, and was the Shire’s delegate on the Avon Midland Country Zone.
A champion of local enterprise, Barry was involved in the steering committee that established the Bendigo Bank in Goomalling and contributed to both the Small Business Centre Committee and the Wheatbelt West Management Committee. A tireless local volunteer, Barry understood the critical importance of grassroots intiatives and community organisations in improving the quality of life for local residents.
Back to All News