Shire of Dardanup chief executive officer Mark Chester has been recognised for his achievements and contribution to local government with a state award.
At the recent Local Government Managers Association WA conference, Mr Chester was awarded the prestigious LGMA Medal.
The medal isn’t awarded every year and only managers who have also served as president of the LGMA WA branch are eligible.
In presenting the medal, LGMA state president Jonathan Throssell said the award was in recognition of Mr Chester’s outstanding achievements and contribution within local government, to the profession of local government management and the objects and ethics of local government.
Mr Chester will celebrate 20 years as the Shire of Dardanup chief executive officer in January.
During this time he also served a two-year term as LGMA state president and was a deputy member of the Local Government Advisory Board.
Mr Chester said he enjoyed being a country-based member who got to spend some time as state president.
“I was able to maintain an objective assessment of the process while encouraging the membership to maintain their professional focus on the business of providing efficient and effective service to the councils and the communities we all serve,” he said.
“I am eternally grateful for my wife Jenny's support and that of my family, but also Shire President Mick Bennett and the council for allowing me the opportunity to contribute to the industry at the state level. Also the staff at the Shire of Dardanup for keeping the wheels turning and the business at the office on track.
“It was a team effort that made my involvement possible and I am truly grateful for the opportunity and for being recognised by my peers for my efforts.”