At its Ordinary Council Meeting on 25 March 2026, Council officially endorsed the Community Blueprints, a landmark initiative designed to guide planning and development across Manjimup, Pemberton, Northcliffe, Walpole and Quinninup over the next decade. The Blueprints outline place-based priorities that support economic diversification, local employment, community connection and the protection of the region’s unique landscapes and heritage.
Over 11 percent of residents participated over a 5-month period commencing in October 2025 through a comprehensive engagement program, one of the largest engagement efforts in the region. The process deliberately sought diverse voices, including youth, long-term residents, new arrivals, businesses, cultural groups and community organisations, ensuring the Blueprints are inclusive, representative, and forward-looking.
Shire President, Donelle Buegge, said the Blueprints reflect the aspirations, values and identity of each town. “The Blueprints have been developed with the people who know their towns best - the residents themselves,” she said. “From community workshops and forums to surveys, interactive tools, and open conversations, the communities’ input has been extraordinary. The result is a roadmap that not only recognises what makes each town unique but also identifies opportunities for growth and development.”
Building on earlier planning initiatives such as the Manjimup SuperTown Townsite Growth Plan and the Shire’s Strategic Community Plan, the Blueprints form the foundation of the Shire’s Council Plan, representing an innovative model of community-driven strategic planning. The Blueprints are designed as living documents to guide ongoing community dialogue, encourage collaboration with State agencies and industry partners, and attract investment to support each town’s unique identity and priorities.
The Shire of Manjimup thanks the community for its extraordinary contribution and looks forward to continuing this collaborative approach to building stronger, more resilient, and connected communities.
The endorsed Community Blueprints are now available to view online at Town Blueprints - Shire of Manjimup, with a hard copy being available at all Shire Libraries.
-ENDS-
Authorised by Donelle Buegge, Shire President
Contact: 0409 114 681
Benjamin (Ben) Rose, Chief Executive Officer
Mikayla Ginbey, Corporate Communications Officer
