COUNCILLOR Luke Ellery was declared Shire of Mundaring deputy president at last week’s ordinary council meeting.

Representing the South Ward, Cr Ellery steps into the position vacated by outgoing deputy shire president Cr Trish Cook, who formally resigned from council following her election as the federal member for Bullwinkel.

A third-generation resident in the shire, Cr Ellery brings both local insight and professional expertise to the role.

Shire President Paige McNeil welcomed Cr Ellery to the deputy role.

“As a consultant engineer, he offers a strong technical background and is passionate about achieving better outcomes in waste management, environmental protection, community facilities and in working towards long-term financial sustainability,” she said.

“I am excited to collaborate with Luke in providing strong leadership for the council and serving our community. His valuable insights enrich council debates, and his dedication to delivering positive change will undoubtedly benefit the Shire of Mundaring.”

Cr Ellery said he is looking forward to further serving the community in the new role.

“I’m humbled council has put its trust in me. I will support the president and councillors to the best of my ability by ensuring we continually listen to our community and focus on the issues that matter most to them,” he said.

Following Cr Cook’s resignation, council also resolved to request approval from the WA Electoral Commissioner to leave the resulting South Ward vacancy unfilled until the local government election in October 2025.

Cr Ellery’s appointment is effective until the October local government elections.