Published on Wednesday, 15 July 2026 at 11:56:32 AM
The Shire of Plantagenet Council appointed Garry Bird as Chief Executive Officer at a Special Council meeting on 14 July.
Mr Bird brings with him more than 25 years’ experience in Western Australian local government, including the Shires of York, Irwin, Gingin, Cranbrook, Wandering, Denmark and Town of Cottesloe.
He has more than two decades of senior leadership experience, including as the Shire of Mundaring Director Corporate Services since 2019.
Shire President Len Handasyde said Mr Bird would commence as CEO on 31 August.
“The Council extends a warm welcome to Mr Bird, who is highly regarded in local government in WA,” Mr Handasyde said.
“His wealth of experience steering local governments will be an asset to the organisation as we move into the delivery phase of many of our key projects.”
“Mr Bird is a familiar face to the Great Southern, having grown up in Albany and maintained strong personal and professional connections to the region.”
“We look forward to him joining the Shire.”
Mr Bird said he was “incredibly excited and honoured” and described his appointment as the new CEO as a full circle moment.
“This opportunity is especially meaningful to me because the Shire of Plantagenet is where I began my local government career,” he said.
“I am passionate about giving back to a community that helped shape who I am today.”
“I look forward to working closely with the President, Councillors, staff and the broader community to build on the Shire's strong foundations, support sustainable growth and deliver positive outcomes for residents now and into the future.”
Image: Supplied, Garry Bird
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