It was the unanimous decision of the group to form a steering committee and seek incorporation of the association.

Those who attended the meeting were Ian Scadden of Heritage Videos; Joe Shaw and Terry Gresty of Cresswells and Mitchell House; Carole Drayton of Central Realty; Ian and Marilyn Menzies and guest new Wagin Shire chief executive officer John Hunter.

Apologies were received from Stephen Donohue of Great Southern Real Estate and Councillor Keith Draper.

Mr Menzies, who was elected chairperson of the steering committee said, “The basic objective of the association will be to promote business, educational, social and cultural development within the Shire of Wagin”.

It will do so by offering individual memberships and sub-committee memberships, where local non incorporated groups will be able to use the WDA to assist in raising grant funding.

This unique model is based on the successful Lake Grace Development Association, with which Mr Menzies has been communicating over the past six years.

A few of the projects discussed during the evening included improvements to the Giant Ram Park and its associated wetlands; sealing bus stop areas; creating sealed caravan “stop and shop” parking areas; new toilet bocks in the central business district; the construction of a Men’s Shed, where woodworking and metalworking skills could be passed on to the younger generation and machinery restoration undertaken; improvements to Puntapin Rock Reserve; up-grade of the local skate park; and designing and promoting the concept of a lifestyle village.

Mr Menzies said the group would appreciate input from the wider community via email at trees@westnet.com.au