Kristy D’Aprile re-elected as Katanning president beside new deputy Ian Hanna in as councillors sworn in

Kristy D’Aprile has been elected for her second term as the Shire of Katanning president beside a new deputy at a special meeting last week that swore in the new councillors. First elected as councillor in 2017 and promoted to president in 2023, Cr D’Aprile was unopposed in taking the top job for a second consecutive term on October 22. The local business owner’s appointment follows an overwhelming first-preference vote that tipped the polls in Cr D’Aprile’s favour by a landslide margin to secure her seat in the 2025 local election. Cr D’Aprile said she was honoured. “Firstly I’m honoured as it is a privilege to represent our community,” she said. “I’m looking forward to the future, we have a lot happening in Katanning and I’m looking forward to getting back to business.” During the meeting Cr Ian Hanna accepted the role as deputy after local government stalwart and WALGA life member Liz Guidera opted to retire after sitting on council since 1994. The chamber also welcomed new face Cr Gemma Lee Trolove, and returning member Cr Danny McGrath who took a four-year break after serving from 2013 to 2021. Cr D’Aprile said she was thrilled to work alongside some fresh faces. “I’m excited that we’ve got some new councillors, I’m looking forward to establishing our new team,” she said. “I would like to express thanks to our retiring councillors Liz Guidera and Michelle Slater who have made an incredible difference to out team and community. “I think it’s well worth recognising their time and effort.” The Shire of Katanning released a new corporate business plan which outlines a clear list of activities and issues council will be working on. Cr D’Aprile said the plan was designed around the community’s wants and the council is “incredibly proud” of it. “I’d encourage all of our community to have a look at the plan because it’s a checklist of what we have heard from our community as priorities and what needs to be done,” she said. “We’ve heard what our community wants and we’re now trying our best to achieve it.” She said one of council’s main priorities include a town planning scheme review to ensure they have enough available land for town growth and housing opportunities. “Katanning is a thriving community and we want to ensure we set ourselves up well for the future,” Cr D’Aprile said.