Manjimup shire president Donelle Buegge to undertake Diploma of Local Government following scholarship win

Manjimup shire president Donelle Buegge will receive financial support to complete a Diploma in Local Government after being named a recipient of the WALGA Jacqui Dodd Scholarship. She was one of four recipients for this year’s scholarship program, which will see the WA Local Government Association cover almost half of more than $10,000 cost to complete the degree. The 18-month training program, beginning in September, consists of several workshops covering topics including elected member responsibilities, policy development, asset management and development application. Ms Buegge said she had to apply for the scholarship, which is handed out each year. “I was really keen to do (the diploma), but I certainly didn’t want to impose $10,000 onto the shire to pay for my training,” she said. “I just feel as a part of my election commitment, I had stated that although I didn’t know a lot about local government, it would be something that I’d promise I’d find the answers to.” Ms Buegge said the remaining costs of the degree not covered by the scholarship would be split between herself and the council. “I have committed $2500 and with the scholarship, effectively the shire are getting $10,000 worth of training for $2500,” she said. “It will benefit the shire and the community in helping me fulfil my role more efficiently.” Ms Buegge said the diploma would help her gain a refined understanding of the specialised side of local government. “I’m really passionate about helping the community... I have the drive and enthusiasm, but it’s the technical side of local government that I rely on other people to assist me with,” she said. “I’d really to know that I’m getting the right information and this will ensure I’m all over that.”