MEDIA RELEASE: March 2026
Honourable Chris Dawson AC APM, Governor of Western Australia
visits the Shire of Manjimup
The Shire of Manjimup was delighted to welcome the His Excellency the Honourable Chris
Dawson, Governor of Western Australia, to the region on Wednesday 11 and Thursday 12
March 2026.
The visit provided an opportunity to showcase the unique character of the Shire of Manjimup
and introduce the Governor to both the inland and coastal communities that make the region
such a special place to live and visit.
On Wednesday 11 March, Shire President Donelle Buegge and Chief Executive Officer Ben
Rose hosted a community reception at the Manjimup Wellness and Respite Community
Centre, where Hon Chris Dawson was formally welcomed to the town. The event brought
together Council and community members and representatives, offering an opportunity to
share local stories and highlight the strong community spirit that defines Manjimup.
Following the reception, the Governor visited the Manjimup Heritage Park including the State
Timber Museum and Power Up Electricity Museum, where he was given an informative tour
of the site. During the visit, he learned about the region’s rich timber milling history and the
important role the forestry industry has played in shaping the identity and development of the
Manjimup community.
Shire President Donelle Buegge said the visit was a valuable opportunity to showcase the
diversity of the Shire of Manjimup.
“From our rich forestry heritage in Manjimup to the stunning natural beauty and coastal lifestyle
of Walpole, we were proud to share with the Governor some of the things that make our region
so unique, and to highlight the passion, history and community spirit that make the Shire such
a wonderful place to live
” Shire President, Donelle Buegge, said.
The Shire of Manjimup was pleased to present two contrasting yet equally special towns
during the visit, offering a glimpse of the diversity of landscapes, industries and communities
that exist within the region.
-ENDS-
Authorised by Donelle Buegge, Shire President
Contact: 0409 114 681
Benjamin (Ben) Rose, Chief Executive Officer
Mikayla Ginbey, Corporate Communications Officer