Nine Denmark candidates make their pitches to voters ahead of looming council shake-up

The Shire of Denmark council is set for a shake-up at October’s local government elections, with nine candidates to compete for six seats with one fresh face already securing a spot on the council unopposed. Seven new candidates will battle it out alongside deputy president Mark Allen and Scotsdale/Shadforth ward’s Cr Jan Lewis, who will be fighting to keep their seats for another term. Incoming candidate Jackie Ormsby — a farmer and psychologist — has already been elected unopposed for a four-year term in the Kent/Nornalup ward. Three seats are available in the Scotsdale/Shadforth ward with two seats up for grabs in the town ward. Town ward’s Cr Ian Osborne and Kent/Nornalup ward’s Cr Roger Seeney have decided not to put their names up for re-election. Cr Geoff Bowley will also not return to the council after an announcement in August he would retire at the October election, citing family reasons, two years before his term was set to expire. Kent/Nornalup: Elected unopposed Name: Jackie Ormsby Profession: Farmer and psychologist I am a strong advocate of access and equity issues. I will bring to the role of councillor an in-depth understanding of local government and will commit to the continued wellbeing of our community by being an active and engaged member of the council. Scotsdale/Shadforth Name: Clare Campbell Profession: Wildlife Asia executive director A dedicated environmental advocate, I aim to address global issues at the local level. I will bring an open mind, integrity and common sense to my councillor role and hope my fresh perspective will support inclusive and progressive decision making. Name: Jan Lewis Profession: Shire of Denmark councillor and farmer If re-elected I will continue to bring energy, passion and experience to the role. I will always listen to the diverse views of our community and my decisions are carefully considered, independent and transparent. Name: Kelli Gillies Profession: Education sector I am dedicated to delivering positive outcomes for residents and local businesses, and will protect what is important for our community. If elected I will be a genuine, motivated, strong local voice that represents you. Name: Mark Allen Profession: Logistics manager I believe it is my responsibility to be here to help continue the great work already achieved. Denmark’s future looks bright. Name: Nathan Devenport Profession: Monkey Rock Mountain Bike Company owner As my kids grow up, I find myself becoming even more passionate about a sustainable future for Denmark. I’m nominating for council as a way of doing something to contribute to our community. Town Name: Dale Smith Profession: The Floating Forest owner Although I have not been involved in local government before, I believe that this may actually be a positive, as I can bring a fresh perspective to the table. If elected I would work with the community and the Shire to help build a sustainable Denmark. Name: Donald Clarke Profession: Community facilitation I believe my passion for community building, together with my career skills in business development and governance, can make a valuable contribution to a council that spends wisely and reflects our community’s common values and aspirations. Name: Donna Carman Profession: Project manager I’m an advocate of social equity and inclusion. I want to continue engaging with locals at a grassroots level, exploring solutions to some of the challenges facing our community, such as sustainable tourism development.