As International Women’s Day approaches on 8 March, the Shire of Nannup proudly celebrates the women whose leadership, service, and community strength continue to shape the district—past, present, and future.
This year offers a special moment to recognise the contributions of Shirley Humble, Nannup’s first female councillor, and to highlight the women who now represent the community on Council, alongside the rich personal stories captured in the Shire’s Voices of Nannup Oral History Project.
Shirley Humble – A Pioneer for Women in Local Government
In 1971, Shirley Humble became the first woman ever elected to the Nannup Shire Council, serving until 1983. At a time when women’s representation in regional government was uncommon, her leadership broke barriers and broadened the scope of community decision‑making.
Shirley’s twelve years of service laid the foundation for women’s ongoing participation in civic life—an enduring legacy that aligns strongly with the Shire of Nannup Strategic Community Plan 2021–2036, which emphasises inclusion, empowerment, and active community leadership.
Women Leading Nannup Today
Shirley’s legacy is clearly visible in the strong female representation on today’s Shire of Nannup Council. The 2026 Council includes five women, each bringing unique skills, knowledge, and community commitment:
- Cr Vicki Hansen – Deputy Shire President
- Cr Cheryle Brown – Councillor
- Cr Patricia Fraser – Councillor
- Cr Nancy Tang – Councillor
- Cr Lynette Curtis – Councillor
These women carry forward the trail Shirley Humble helped blaze, representing the community with integrity and ensuring that diverse perspectives guide local decision‑making.
Their leadership reflects the values of modern Nannup—inclusive, community‑driven, and forward‑looking—and serves as a reminder of how far the Shire has come in building opportunities for women to participate at all levels of civic life.
Pat Twiss – A Story of Heritage, Advocacy, and Everyday Leadership
The Shire also honours the stories of local women whose influence extends beyond formal leadership roles. Among them is Pat Twiss, whose memories are captured in the Nannup Oral History Project.
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Pat and her husband Joe ran Old Templemore Antiques and Tearooms, an iconic local business that brought together residents, travellers, and curious passers‑by. Her recollections celebrate community spirit, small‑business resilience, and her deep love for the town she calls home.
Pat has also been a passionate advocate for women’s rights through her long association with the Country Women’s Association (CWA). Her story includes a meaningful personal connection to the suffragette movement—symbolised by the special necklace she wears each year on March 8, a tribute to the women who fought for the rights enjoyed today.
Her reflections embody the theme of International Women’s Day: the quiet, powerful leadership found in everyday life, community care, and the preservation of local heritage.
Honouring the Women Who Shape Nannup
From Shirley Humble’s groundbreaking election in 1971 to the dedicated service of today’s female councillors—and the heartfelt stories shared by women like Pat Twiss—Nannup’s history is rich with women who have led, inspired, built, contributed, and cared.
On this International Women’s Day, the Shire of Nannup celebrates:
- women in local government leadership,
- women preserving community heritage,
- women advocating for equality,
- and the girls and young women who will guide the Shire into the future.
Their stories strengthen the Shire’s vision of a connected, resilient community where everyone feels empowered to participate and lead.