City of Gosnells Deputy Mayor Serena Williamson has been honoured with a prestigious WALGA Merit Award, recognising her outstanding contribution to the local government sector.
Deputy Mayor Williamson received the award at the 2025 Local Government Awards, hosted by the Western Australian Local Government Association (WALGA) at the WA Museum Boola Bardip last night.
She was among more than 40 individuals, elected members, officers and local governments acknowledged for their dedication and service to their communities.
Mayor Terresa Lynes congratulated her colleague on the recognition, noting her leadership across several key areas of the sector.
“Among other things, Serena played a key role in progressing the WA branch of the Australian Local Government Women’s Association and has shown strong leadership as chair of the Metropolitan Regional Roads Board,” she said.
Deputy Mayor Williamson said she was honoured to receive the award, which acknowledged her work over the past eight years.
“I’m incredibly humbled to receive the WALGA Merit Award, recognising my service to the City of Gosnells and the broader Local Government sector since being elected in 2017,” she said.
“Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of wearing many hats while serving as Deputy Mayor and Councillor. It has been an honour to Chair the Metropolitan Regional Road Group, serve on the South East Regional Energy Group, and be appointed President of the Australian Local Government Women’s Association WA.
“These roles have enabled me to advocate for road safety, sustainability, and community engagement across the sector. My focus has always been on delivering better outcomes—not only for Gosnells, but also in helping drive meaningful change across Western Australia.
“The WALGA Awards highlight the vital work Elected Members do beyond public council meetings and community events. Real change happens when we as a sector come together, volunteering our time, sharing our strengths, and advocating for our communities.
“Serving the community has always been my passion, and it’s one I remain deeply committed to. I look forward to continuing this work for many years to come—building a better future for our community, our children, and our grandchildren.”
The annual WALGA Awards, supported by the State Government and LGIS, celebrate individuals and organisations that go above and beyond in serving their communities.
WALGA President Karen Chappel said the awards highlighted the commitment of those who strive to make a lasting impact.
“Local governments are highly accountable to the communities they represent, and our 2025 recipients embody the dedication and hard work undertaken by the sector each and every day,” she said.
Other award recipients included President Councillor Katrina Crute of the Shire of Brookton and Deputy President Councillor Liz Guidera of the Shire of Katanning, who were both awarded WALGA Life Membership.
Councillor Christine Hamilton-Prime from the City of Joondalup was named the Troy Pickard Young Achiever, and the Shire of Dowerin took home the WA RoadWise Council Trophy for excellence in road safety initiatives.
The stand-alone event gave recipients a chance to celebrate their achievements alongside their families and peers.
