Published on Friday, 15 May 2026 at 3:39:43 PM
Nannup recognised on State stage with WALGA invitation and case study feature
The Shire of Nannup has been recognised at a State level for its leadership in economic transition and place-based development, following an invitation to present at the launch of the Western Australian Local Government Association (WALGA) Economic Development Case Studies 2026.
Chief Executive Officer David Taylor and Economic and Community Development Coordinator Nicole Botica travelled to Perth to present Nannup’s story at the official launch on Monday 11 May, showcasing the Shire’s Aspiring Trail Town initiative to local governments across Western Australia.
This invitation highlights the growing recognition of Nannup as a leading example of how rural communities can successfully navigate economic change through proactive planning, strong community values and strategic investment.
From timber town to trail town
Featured in the WALGA publication (pages 46–48), Nannup’s case study shares the Shire’s journey from a traditional timber-based economy to a diversified, sustainable tourism model built around its natural assets and trail network.
For generations, timber shaped the identity and economy of Nannup. However, the closure of the local timber mill in early 2024 created a significant economic and social shift for the community.
Rather than reacting to change, the Shire had already been planning for the future — identifying nature-based tourism and trail development as a strategic opportunity to support long-term resilience.
The full case study can be viewed in the Local Government Economic Development Case Study 2026:
👉 From Idea to Implementation - Local Government Economic Development Case Studies
A strategic, whole-of-town approach
The Aspiring Trail Town initiative demonstrates how Nannup has taken a coordinated, long-term approach to economic development.
The project integrates:
- Trail infrastructure and mountain bike facilities
- Visitor information and digital tools
- Place branding through Experience Nannup
- Business capability and investment readiness
By aligning these elements, Nannup has positioned itself as an emerging trail destination, leveraging its landscape, location and strong community values.
Turning investment into impact
A key highlight of the WALGA case study is Nannup’s ability to leverage modest local investment into significant funding outcomes.
An initial municipal investment of approximately $118,000 was used to attract more than $5.29 million in Federal, State and partner funding, delivering major projects including:
- Tank 7 Mountain Bike Park
- Ngoolark Jump Park
- Trail connections and wayfinding
- Digital visitor platforms and mapping
These projects have not only enhanced Nannup’s visitor experience, but also strengthened liveability for residents and created new opportunities for local businesses.
Delivering real outcomes for the community
The transition is already delivering tangible benefits for Nannup, including:
- Increased year-round visitation
- Attraction of cycling events and tourism investment
- Growth in local business participation
- Improved health, wellbeing and community pride
Importantly, the initiative reflects a values-led approach — ensuring development enhances, rather than compromises, Nannup’s identity and connection to environment and community.
A model for regional Western Australia
The WALGA Economic Development Case Studies 2026 publication showcases leading examples of local government innovation across the State, highlighting the important role councils play in supporting economic growth, liveability and investment attraction.
Nannup’s inclusion alongside other high-performing projects demonstrates the strength of its strategic planning and its relevance as a model for other regional communities facing structural change.
Looking ahead
As Nannup continues its journey toward becoming a recognised Trail Town, the focus remains on delivering sustainable, long-term outcomes that support both community wellbeing and economic resilience.
This State-level recognition reinforces that Nannup is not only adapting to change — it is actively shaping its future.
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