Shire of Woodanilling chief executive Anika Serer heads to top job in Dumbleyung, excited by new challenges

The Shire of Woodanilling is seeking a new chief executive as current CEO Anika Serer is moving next door to Dumbleyung to take the top job there. Ms Serer, who came to Woodanilling in May 2025, will be taking the reins at her neighbouring shire, starting on June 29. Ms Serer, who grew up in Wagin, said she was up for the challenge of another rural local government area. “It’s a really great opportunity; they have some really exciting projects and community initiatives,” she said. “I am relocating half an hour down the road; it’s a neighbouring shire so it’s one with which I am quite familiar.” Gavin Treasure, the current Shire of Dumbleyung CEO, is retiring. Projects being developed by the Shire of Dumbleyung include providing a new pool, adding a mural to the town’s water tank, creating a 5D experience at the town’s community resource centre to celebrate Donald Campbell’s 1964 world water speed record and utilising the $3.6m Federal Government grant to start residential developments on the eastern side of town. According to Shire of Dumbleyung president Amy Knight, Ms Serer has a record of delivering major community infrastructure, particularly during her time at the Shire of Ashburton in the Pilbara. “She stood out through the recruitment process for her depth of local government experience, strategic mindset and commitment to regional communities,” Cr Knight said. “Her proven ability to lead organisations, deliver major projects and build strong partnerships positions her well to lead the Shire of Dumbleyung into the future.” Her departure means the Shire of Woodanilling has started the process of looking for a successor. Ms Serer said she was looking forward to moving up the road. “Dumbleyung is a vibrant regional community with strong potential, and I am excited to contribute to its future,” she said.