WANTING to demonstrate the role of motherhood does not need to limit one’s ability, newly-elected Bassendean Mayor Renee McLennan is proving she is a force to be reckoned with.
Having previously been the only woman on council, last week Cr McLennan became the third woman to become Mayor of the Town, after Tina Klein (2003-2009) and Vicki Philipoff (1995-1997).
The mother-of-two and qualified physiotherapist said she was delighted and honoured to become mayor and was looking forward to working with a new-look council which included three other women and three men including former mayor John Gangell.
Get in front of tomorrow's news for FREE
Journalism for the curious Australian across politics, business, culture and opinion.
READ NOW“I am delighted to have such a dedicated, positive and inspiring group of people to work alongside in our new council,” Cr McLennan said.
“It is an honour to be part of this group and I am humbled to have been chosen to serve as mayor.
“I am excited about what lies ahead for Bassendean as our council and community partner with one another.
“When we bring all of our skills, experience and passion together as well as harness the wealth of expertise and ideas that exist within our community, I can see a bright future for Bassendean.
“Local government has typically been fairly male dominated but women bring a different perspective and set of experiences which are an asset to decision making bodies such as a council,” she said.
“I am thrilled at the new council’s composition and that it more closely resembles the make up of our community.
“I feel privileged to now have three incredible new women to work alongside representing Bassendean.”
Listing stronger connections between the Town and community as one of her priorities, Cr McLennan said she wanted to ensure genuine engagement with the residents was had before making decisions.
“Together the new council is feeling very excited about the possibilities that lay ahead,” she said.
“Everyone is focused on settling into their roles, building relationships with one another and identifying the priorities moving forwards.
“I want to ensure that the planning work that is done reflects what the community would like to see Bassendean become and that development and renewal occurs in a way that preserves our unique character and protects and enhances the Town’s open spaces.
“I believe people want to see development that is sensibly planned, attractive and promotes liveable neighbourhoods where people feel connect and safe and expect it to be done in an environmentally responsible and sustainable manner.”
The 40-year-old said she also valued the Town’s natural environment and hoped to continue to show further leadership in the area of sustainability.
Cr McLennan’s new-look council includes Kathryn Hamilton, Melissa Mykytiuk and Sarah Quinton, with Bob Brown (deputy mayor), Jai Wilson and John Gangell.
MORE: What is WAfoodies? Why are we doing it?
MORE: Halloween warning from police
