Pingelly, Lake Grace, Darkan and Corrigin named among strong list of WA Tidy Towns awards finalists

Four Wheatbelt towns are finalists in this year’s WA Tidy Towns Sustainable Communities Awards, with Pingelly also in the running for the overall State gong.

The list of 43 finalists was announced last Thursday, with Pingelly, Lake Grace, Darkan and Corrigin all making it to the final round.

The WA awards are split into 10 categories, and communities also become eligible for a State award if they enter in at least six of the 10 categories.

Pingelly is a finalist in three categories, as well as for the overall State award. It’s in the running for awards in environmental sustainability for its urban canopy, community garden and wildlife advocacy, and general appearance for its Giants Among Us streetscape project.

Pingelly community garden group president Meredith Freebairn, who also won the Shire of Pingelly’s community member of the year award for 2026, is also one of six finalists for the leadership award.

Corrigin is a dual finalist in the heritage and culture, and litter action categories, recognised for its Pioneer Museum and for local efforts to revitalise the Corrigin Tidy Towns group.

Lake Grace is shortlisted for the local Lions Club’s Containers for Change project, called Turning Containers into Community Support.

Darkan also made the shortlist in the community containers for change category, as well as in the heritage and culture category for its annual Sheepfest.

Pingelly is also in the running for the State award this year, giving it a chance to represent WA at the national Tidy Towns awards if it wins at State level.

Williams won the State award for 2025, and went on to win the top gong at the national Tidy Towns awards earlier this year.

Winners of each category and this year’s State award will be announced at a ceremony in Perth at Optus Stadium on November 27.

Regional Development Minister Stephen Dawson said making the State finalists’ list was a testament to local efforts.

“Being named a Tidy Towns finalist is a significant achievement and a reflection of the dedication, pride, and hard work of local volunteers, community groups and residents who help make their town a better place to live,” he said.

“This recognition celebrates the people who give their time and energy to make their towns stronger, more sustainable and more welcoming.”