Published on Tuesday, 11 August 2026 at 7:33:28 AM
The 2026/2027 Annual Budget was adopted by the Council on 28 July.
Shire President Len Handasyde said it comprised $19 million of capital expenditure.
“This budget makes a significant investment into roads, recreation and enhancing amenity,” Cr Handasyde said.
“The $4.18 million road construction program includes upgrading Takalarup Road, Poorarecup Road and Carbarup Road floodways, improved drainage and the construction of a heavy vehicle rest area in Rocky Gully.”
“The capacity of the O’Neill Road Waste Management Facility will be expanded to cater to the immediate and future needs our growing community, including the construction of the Mount Barker Recycling Hub.”
“The Council has allocated $1.53 million to build new bush fire brigade sheds in Rocky Gully and Woogenellup, and to increase water storage at the Narrikup Bush Fire Brigade shed by 200,000 litres.”
“More than $1.1 million will go towards the Porongurup Hall expansion, new ablutions for the Narrikup Hall, major maintenance of the Plantagenet District Hall, a new car park and power connection for the Kendenup Community and Men’s Shed, and new windows and brickwork for Mitchell House Arts Centre.”
Cr Handasyde said the Wilson Park Youth Recreation Zone, allocated $2.84 million including $1.43 million in WA Government grants, was a highlight.
“This is the first stage of the Wilson Park Recreational Masterplan, developed in consultation with stakeholders including Kendenup Playgroup, Mount Barker Lions Club and Mount Barker Mountain Bike Group, as well as the broader Plantagenet community,” he said.
“The Youth Recreation Zone will significantly enhance the skateboarding, BMX, scooter and mountain biking opportunities in Mount Barker, and the Council looks forward to this exciting project breaking ground in coming months.”
“This budget also includes more than $162,000 of upgrades to Sounness Park, and the finalisation of the Frost and Sounness Parks Precinct Masterplan.”
“In addition, the Council will continue to provide financial support to community groups, sporting clubs and not-for-profit organisations through the Community Grants Program, with Community Grants applications open from 1 August to 30 September.”
Empowering Plantagenet Seniors was allocated $49,500 in the 2026-2027 Annual Budget towards a new meal delivery program, GO-PHER – Meals for the Community.
View the full 2026/2027 Annual Budget.
Pictured: EPS Vice President Helen Jefferies, President Sue Etherington, Cr Handasyde and EPS volunteer Suzy Wicks.
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