Published on Wednesday, 3 September 2025 at 4:05:17 PM
Council and the Shire warmly welcome members of the public to every Council Agenda Briefing and Ordinary Council Meeting – this is your chance to step up and make Councillors and staff aware of the issues important to you! Time is set aside especially to facilitate anyone wanting to come in and ask questions, put forward addresses or deputations, and present petitions (Items 7 – 9) at the monthly Ordinary Council Meetings.
At the July Council Meeting a passionate local resident took advantage of this opportunity to raise an important issue: road safety on the South Coast Highway east of Munglinup. He urged the Shire to apply for Black Spot funding towards improved safety at a location that has long worried the community. He spoke movingly about a recent serious incident at the site, the lasting impacts on all involved, as well as long term, ongoing communications between locals and Main Roads WA on the issue.
Deputy President Obourne thanked the community member for taking the time to come in and bring to the matter to the Council’s attention and for giving advance notice, which allowed a quick discussion between staff and Councillors beforehand. Shire CEO, Shane Burge, had a brief response, detailing how the four Local Governments along the south coast (Albany, Jerramungup, Ravensthorpe and Esperance) have made South Coast Hwy improvements a priority in their Strategic Plans. The CEOs of these four Local Governments recently met with Main Roads WA Regional Managers to push for State Government funding for improved safety along this key freight, tourism and local traffic route - and workplace for many in the transport industry.
While the South Coast Highway is the responsibility of Main Roads WA, the Shire recognises safety on this major road as a priority project. In response to the concerns raised it was clarified that the Shire will research and explore options to apply for Black Spot funding as requested – a great example of how community voices, working with Council and the Shire, can help work towards the solutions relevant to our region.
Watch the July Council Meeting on the Shire of Esperance YouTube channel here.
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