Garry Fisher MLGP
Director Customer and Community
City of Canning

Please outline your experience and involvement with LG Professionals WA and the WA Local Government Sector.
My local government career began in 2001 at the City of Wanneroo as a Youth Development Officer, igniting a lifelong passion for building stronger communities. Over the past two decades, I’ve worked across several local governments and learnt from outstanding mentors who have shaped my values and inspired my approach to leadership. This journey has led me to executive roles at both the City of Kwinana and now the City of Canning, where I’ve found great fulfillment in leading diverse teams and delivering positive outcomes for the community.
I have been an active and passionate contributor to LG Professionals WA for many years, having been a member for most of my career. My involvement has spanned multiple networks and branches, reflecting a sustained commitment to growth and excellence of our sector. This includes serving as Chairperson of the Community Development Network (2014- 2020), Chairperson and active member of the Metro Branch (2020 - 2023) and more recently the Chair of the Engagement and Best Practice Working Group (2023 - present).

Please outline your reasons in nominating to be a Board Member of LG Professionals WA.
LG Professionals WA has been a cornerstone of my personal and professional growth. From my earliest days in local government to my current executive leadership roles, the LG Professionals conferences, leadership programs, mentoring initiatives, and networks have provided opportunities that have shaped who I am today.
I am now at a point in my career where I feel a deep responsibility to give back. With kids requiring less hands on time, due to their age and independence, I feel the time is right for me to really support those who have supported me in the past. 
As a Board Member, I will bring a collaborative, future-focused approach to elevating the voice of local government, nurturing emerging leaders, and helping our sector to thrive in an environment that is increasingly complex and rapidly changing. This is an opportunity to give back to the organisation that has invested so much in me, over many years, and to help shape the next chapter of excellence and innovation for local government in Western Australia.

Please outline your skills and qualities that would help to enhance the Association as a Board Member.
Over my career I have combined involvement in LG Professionals WA working groups and networks with extensive governance experience in the not-for-profit sector. Most recently I served on the Board of Dismantle, a social enterprise that empowers disengaged young people through hands-on programs.
I have also completed the Company Directors Course with AICD, equipping me with a strong foundation in contemporary governance, finance, and risk management. This knowledge, paired with my practical leadership experience in the LG sector, positions me to provide the Board with clear, considered and future focused advice on organisational oversight, member engagement and sector advocacy.
On the Board of LG Professionals WA, I will draw on these skills and knowledge to provide strong governance and strategic insight combined with a collaborative approach to support the association to be a trusted voice for the LG sector.

Please outline your priorities if successfully elected as a Board Member of LG Professionals WA.
My first priority would be to listen, learn and build strong relationships. With many years of involvement across LG Professionals branches and networks, I already have a sound understanding of the current strategic direction, which will allow me to contribute effectively from the outset.
I am also committed to strengthening partnerships with key stakeholders such as WALGA and the State Government, building on the excellent relationships that already exist. By fostering open dialogue and collaboration, we can ensure the Association remains a trusted and influential voice for the sector.