- Donelle Buegge appointed Chair of the Warren Donnelly Water Advisory Committee
- Ms Buegge brings extensive experience in local government and community advocacy
- Committee plays key role in sustainable surface water management in the Warren and Donnelly catchments
Donelle Buegge has been announced as the new Chair of the Warren Donnelly Water Advisory Committee, which she has served on since 2020.
The current Shire of Manjimup president initially joined the committee as a community representative and subsequently became the representative for the Shire of Manjimup.
A long-time advocate for the region, she brings a deep understanding of local issues and a strong commitment to sustainable water management.
The committee, established in 1963, advises the Water Minister and the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation on surface water management in the Warren and Donnelly River catchments.
It ensures landholders, industry groups and other key stakeholders have a voice in local water management decisions.
The committee also includes representatives from the community, local government, State Government agencies and the Southern Forest Community Landcare group.
Mark Batty has been appointed as the new representative for Southern Forest Community Landcare, while a new representative for the Shire of Manjimup will be appointed to replace Ms Buegge.
As stated by Water Minister Don Punch:
"Donelle brings a wealth of knowledge and a strong commitment to sustainable water management in the region, which will be invaluable as the committee continues its important work.
"Her leadership and understanding of both community and local government issues make her ideally placed to guide the committee through its next phase, supporting the sustainable management of surface water in the Warren and Donnelly catchments."
"I thank outgoing member Julian Sharp and former Chair Jane Kelsbie for their dedicated service. Their efforts have helped ensure local perspectives and environmental values remain central to water management decisions in the region."
As stated by Warren Donnelly Water Advisory Committee Chair Donelle Buegge:
"It's an honour to be appointed Chair of the Committee, which has played a critical role in giving the community a voice in how we manage our water resources.
"I look forward to the opportunity to further strengthen the relationship between the Department and local stakeholders and deliver positive outcomes for the region."