President’s Statement - Resignation of the Chief Executive Officer

Published on Friday, 24 July 2026 at 3:03:15 PM

President’s Statement  

Re: Resignation of the Chief Executive Officer  

On behalf of the Council of the Shire of Dundas, I wish to advise the community that our Chief Executive Officer, Mr Peter Fitchat, has tendered his resignation after accepting the position of Chief Executive Officer with the Shire of Cranbrook. Mr Fitchat’s final day with the Shire of Dundas will be 16 October 2026. 

While Council is naturally disappointed to see Mr Fitchat leave, we congratulate him on his appointment and wish him every success in the next chapter of his career. 

Mr Fitchat has served the Shire of Dundas for the past eight years, during which time the organisation has experienced significant growth, change, and transformation. Working alongside Council, staff and the community, he has helped guide the Shire through many challenges, including financial constraints, drought, major bushfires, the COVID-19 pandemic, workforce and housing shortages, and the increasing demands placed on remote local governments. 

Throughout his tenure, he has supported Council to strengthen its financial position, enhance governance and compliance, expand its service delivery, and deliver a number of significant projects that have benefited the community. These include the development of the Norseman Airport and terminal, the Eucla Community Hall, the Woodlands Cultural, Community and Visitor Centre, the establishment of the public and commercial laundromat, and the acquisition and operation of the Village Grocer and Licensed Post Office to ensure the continuation of essential services. The Shire has also continued to expand its road, emergency management, and community infrastructure programs while maintaining a strong focus on advocacy for remote communities at the regional, state and national level. 

These achievements reflect the collective efforts of Council, Shire staff and the wider community. Council acknowledges Mr Fitchat’s leadership and commitment in helping deliver these outcomes and thanks him for his leadership in supporting the Shire over the past eight years. 

Any person that knows Peter Fitchat can attest to his hands on approach, and dedication to building strong community outcomes. On a personal note, it has been a privilege to work with him, and I want to acknowledge the massive effort he has contributed to the community, Shire staff, and Council.  

Going forward, Council and Mr Fitchat are committed to ensuring a smooth transition prior to his departure and will commence the recruitment process for a new Chief Executive Officer in due course. 

On behalf of Council, I sincerely thank Mr Fitchat for his dedication and service to the Shire of Dundas and wish him every success for the future. 

Laurene Bonza 

Shire President