New Director of Corporate and Community Services appointed

Published on 28 May 2025

West Wimmera Shire Council is pleased to announce the appointment of Dalton Burns as the new Director Corporate and Community Services.

Mr Burns will commence in the role on Monday, 2 June 2025.

He brings a wealth of experience in financial and business management across the education, training, and public health sectors.

Having worked extensively in rural and remote parts of the Wimmera, he brings a strong understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities facing regional communities.

Council Chief Executive Officer David Bezuidenhout welcomed the appointment.

“Dalton’s professional experience, combined with his local knowledge and strong community values, makes him a good fit for this role,” he said.

“We’re delighted to welcome him to the executive team and look forward to the leadership and insight he will bring to Council’s corporate and community services portfolio.”

Born and raised in Horsham, Mr Burns spent much of his time on the family farm at Douglas.

His parents both have deep roots in the region, having grown up on properties in Douglas and Harrow.

He completed a Bachelor of Commerce at Deakin University, later becoming a CPA and more recently achieving a Master of Business Administration.

Mr Bezuidenhout said Mr Burns understood what mattered to people in rural areas and has demonstrated a strong commitment to regional Victoria throughout his career.

This appointment also honours a proud family legacy for Mr Burns, with his grandfather serving as President of the former Shire in the mid-1970s.

Outside of work, Mr Burns is a devoted father and an active member of the local sporting community.

He plays football for the Harrow Balmoral Football Netball Club and values the connection that sport brings to rural life.

Mr Burns’ leadership and experience will play a key role in delivering Council’s strategic priorities and strengthening engagement across the West Wimmera community.