Mayor awarded OAM in Queen’s birthday list 2014

The City of Armadale’s Mayor, Councillor Henry Zelones, has been awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia in the Queen’s birthday honours released today.

Mayor Henry Zelones OAM, was recognised for his outstanding service and contributions to local government and the community of Armadale.

For the past twenty five years, Mayor Zelones has displayed great commitment and dedication to his local community. He entered local government in 1989 elected as a Councillor to the River Ward, and appointed as Mayor in 2011.

During his time as Councillor and Mayor, Mayor Zelones has served on various committees and boards within the community and local government sector.

He is also the Founding President of the Southeast Metro Regional Chamber of Commerce and a Conferred Life Member of the Armadale Chamber of Commerce.

Mayor Zelones said it has been rewarding to represent the community of Armadale for so many years and see the enormous growth and changes from an urban community to a recognised Strategic Metropolitan Centre.

"I feel absolutely honoured and also very humbled to be receiving this award. I feel a bit overwhelmed.

"I certainly did not expect to be honoured for my work within the community and doing something I love.

"It is an honour to be a member of the Armadale community and to be able to work with so many professional and amazing people. My work colleagues are the best.

"Today, the City of Armadale is one of the fastest growing local government areas in the country.

"We have a growing community that appreciates the quality infrastructure and good services and facilities the City of Armadale provides, and that is reward enough for me.

"It is exciting times ahead for our community and I am thrilled and honoured to represent the City of Armadale and its residents," said Mayor Zelones.

Armadale Chief Executive Officer Ray Tame said "that the award was richly deserved and reflected well on the whole district."

Mayor Zelones is currently the Commissioner for the Western Australian Planning Commission, Chair of the WALGA Planning Reform Policy Forum and member of the WALGA Better Local Government Taskforce.

He was also recently appointed as chairperson for the Local Implementation Committee (LIC), which was established to guide Armadale, Serpentine Jarrahdale and Murray through the local government reform process.

Mayor Zelones has played vital roles in the progress of business, tourism, urban growth and development in the City of Armadale during his time on Council.