Council responds to community concern

Published on 04 July 2025

West Wimmera Shire Council is aware of community concern following the recent conviction of Indigenous elder Ron Marks for possessing child abuse material.

Mr Marks previously visited kindergartens and playgroups across the shire as part of cultural incursions.

These visits occurred after his arrest in 2021 but prior to his conviction.

At the time of each visit, Council staff believed Mr Marks held a valid Working with Children Check, which was sighted in accordance with Council’s standard procedures.

Council had no knowledge of the arrest or any investigation involving Mr Marks.

Mr Marks’ presentations included sharing stories of his childhood and heritage, displaying Aboriginal artefacts, and demonstrating aspects of traditional Indigenous culture, under the supervision of teachers and educators.

At no stage was Mr Marks left alone with children during any visit.

Council policies strictly prohibit visitors from being unsupervised with children.

All incursions undergo a thorough risk assessment, and staff are always present.

Based on Council’s understanding, the offences Mr Marks has been convicted of are not connected to any children who attend Council-operated kindergartens or live within the West Wimmera community.

West Wimmera Shire Council has no ongoing or future association with Mr Marks.

Council Acting Chief Executive Officer Brendan Pearce said the organisation was devastated to learn of the conviction.

“We understand that this news is deeply upsetting for families and our broader community,” he said.

Our kindergartens and playgroups followed all required processes and protocols, including verifying what we believed to be a valid Working with Children Check and ensuring Mr Marks was never unsupervised.”

“The fact that Mr Marks appeared to hold a valid Working with Children Check despite being under investigation is deeply troubling, and we recognise the concern this raises for parents and carers.

Mr Pearce said Council would work closely with neighbouring early childhood education and care providers and the Department of Education to understand how Council was not made aware of Mr Marks’ arrest in 2021.

“Child safety is, and will always be, our highest priority.

“We are treating this matter with the seriousness and sensitivity it deserves, and we remain committed to being open with our community.”

Council encourages families with questions or concerns to contact us on 13 99 72.