Narrogin chief executive Dale Stewart announces his departure from Wheatbelt to move to Shire of Port Hedland

Long-time Shire of Narrogin chief executive Dale Stewart announced his departure from the top role on Monday, with plans to take his local government experience to the Pilbara.

Having served in Narrogin since 2018, Mr Stewart will wrap up his time in the Wheatbelt town on May 1 and travel to the Pilbara to start as the new chief executive for the Town of Port Hedland on May 11.

About a decade ago, Mr Stewart worked in the roles of acting director of corporate and acting chief executive for the Shire of Ashburton and Town of Port Hedland respectively.

Mr Stewart said he decided to step down from his Narrogin position and return north to assist in the local government’s current administrative challenges.

He said there were elements and challenges of local government in the Pilbara that drove him to apply, including the return of good governance and organisational stability following the collapse of Port Hedland’s elected 2025 council.

“Port Hedland has had a number of challenges for a number of years, and I felt that it required someone with appropriate expertise and experience that I think I can deliver to the organisation and the community,” he said.

He said he has a “soft spot” for the Pilbara, and that he loved the landscape, finding it inviting for both work challenges and lifestyle.

Despite this, he said the decision was “not made lightly” after calling Narrogin home for eight years.

Mr Stewart said his role in the Wheatbelt would continue unabated with the responsibility to deliver to the best of his ability and passion until his final day in May.

“I’ll be busy wrapping up those projects I can conclude with the council, but also ensuring that the number of loose ends are minimised and there are comprehensive handover notes to an incumbent or successor,” he said.

Shire president Leigh Ballard said Mr Stewart’s service and leadership had been “exemplary” and that he had made significant contributions both internally and externally.

“While council accepts Dale’s resignation with some sadness, we fully understand and respect his decision,” Cr Ballard said.

“Dale’s tenure as chief executive officer has been exemplary.

“His leadership has strengthened the organisation through robust governance, sound financial management, and the introduction of innovative systems and practices that will serve the shire well into the future.

“Dale leaves the shire in a strong position, supported by a capable executive team and a committed workforce.

“On behalf of council and the community, I sincerely thank him for his dedication and wish him every success in his new role.”

The Shire of Narrogin will now start a “structured and transparent” recruitment process for a new chief executive, including Statewide advertising and will appoint an interim chief executive during the transition period.