The career achievements of Shire of Augusta Margaret River Chief Executive Officer Gary Evershed were publicly acknowledged at the WA Local Government Association's Statewide Convention this week when he was awarded the highest possible industry honours for a Local Government officer.
The accolade, titled the WALGA Local Government Distinguished Officer Award, celebrates Mr Evershed’s inspirational leadership, the contributions he has made to his community, and the advancements made to the sector as a whole.
Mr Evershed said he was humbled and delighted to have been nominated by Councillors and recognised by WALGA for the award.
“I have always tried to make a strong contribution to the wider industry and this award is the highlight of my career in local government,” he said.
Nominating councillors Ian Earl, Peter Lane, Pauline McLeod and Shire President Pam Townshend detailed a range of outstanding achievements during the near 10 years Mr Evershed has worked at the local Shire in additional to his work in the Perth Metropolitan Area.
Career highlights include:
- Chairing the Shire’s 2011 bushfire recovery committee and overseeing the Shire's recovery effort
- Championing the relocation of the Shire’s main administration centre, and achieving building
- Pursuing identified Supertown transformational projects including Surfers Point redevelopment and Main Street upgrades
- Achieving support, plans and funding for a $9.5m Cultural Centre redevelopment, complete with a major asbestos removal program to safeguard the community into the future
- Recipient of the 2017 CEO leadership award regarding employment of people with a disability
- Establishment of an international sister city relationship which has facilitated reciprocal high school students visits with China
- Securing increased State funding for the purpose-built SES facility in Margaret River
- Performing a major leadership role in the Your 2036 community visioning program
- Convening a national leadership conference in Margaret River, showing the region to high level influencers
- 15 years of combined dedicated service as a State Board Member (10yrs) and a National Board Director (5yrs)
The nomination also encompassed Mr Evershed’s achievements at the City of Bassendean, where he held the role of Chief Executive Officer.
Shire President Pam Townshend offered her congratulations to Mr Evershed and commended him on his service to local government.
“It’s wonderful to be able to take pause and celebrate the significant contributions made by our CEO over an extended period of time,” she said.
“Council, staff and the wider community have benefited greatly from your vision for the region and also the courage, commitment and efforts of your actions.
“Thank you for your service to the Shire and the local community."
The award announcement was made at the WALGA’s Annual General Meeting which was held at the Perth Convention Exhibition Centre as part of the 2018 Local Government Convention.
