Michael Ogilvie Joins the WAC Board

Whadjuk Aboriginal Corporation has welcomed Michael Ogilvie as its newest Member Director following his appointment to the Board this week.

Michael steps into the vacancy created by the recent resignation of Wayne Ryder and brings the Board back to its full complement of Member Directors.

His appointment also reflects the outcome of WAC's previous Member Director election process.

He accepted the opportunity and was formally appointed by the Board on 5 October 2026.

For Michael, it comes at a busy but exciting time for WAC.

Over recent months the Corporation has been rebuilding its workforce, strengthening its financial and governance systems and expanding the work being undertaken across heritage, lands and environment. WAC is also preparing for its December AGM and the next stage of its longer-term strategic direction.

CEO Dominic Panaia said bringing Michael onto the Board was another important step in providing stability for the Corporation.

“Michael put his hand up through the proper member election process and was prepared to step forward again when the opportunity arose.

“There is a lot of great things happening at WAC at this moment in time and we will make sure Michael gets a proper handover and the governance support he needs, but most importantly he comes onto the Board with an opportunity to contribute and represent the interests of our members.

“I am looking forward to working with him as we continue the work already underway.”

Michael joins Chairperson Charne Hayden and Member Directors Denice Kickett and Colin Garlett on the WAC Board.

His appointment provides continuity for the Corporation while ensuring the vacancy was filled by returning to the member election process that had already taken place.

WAC welcomes Michael and looks forward to his contribution.