Published on Wednesday, 9 July 2025 at 10:00:00 AM
Having considered the Auditor General’s Report for the Shire of Coolgardie’s 2023-24 financial year, the Shire has formally terminated the employment of its suspended CEO Mr James Trail, effective immediately.
The Auditor General made several findings of serious mismanagement issues which all occurred during Mr Trail’s tenure as Chief Executive Officer. In that role, he was responsible for ensuring that the Shire’s administration, including its finances, was managed diligently and in compliance with the Local Government Act and regulations. In demonstrating its strong disavowal of the conduct of Mr Trail, Council made the decision to immediately terminate him from his employment.
The issues identified by the Auditor General have not only put the financial position of the Shire at risk, they have also attracted adverse public comments about the Shire that have impacted the Shire’s reputation and standing. Inaction by Council would not have been a responsible reaction to the Auditor General’s report, hence its decision to terminate Mr Trail’s employment effective 8 July.
Shire President, Malcolm Cullen stated, “Council acknowledges the seriousness of the Auditor General’s findings, which are of a range and scale that are unprecedented in the Shire’s history and have put its finances and reputation in serious jeopardy.”
Council suspended Mr Trail from the role in November 2024 after allegations of workplace culture issues emerged. This led to the Shire commissioning an independent investigation which has been ongoing. Mr Trail tendered his resignation for 10 July 2025 while on extended personal leave.
In the meantime, Mr Aaron Cook is continuing in his capacity as Acting CEO.
ENDS
For media enquiries, please contact:
Joy Charlton
Communication and Media Officer
P: 9080 2111
M: 0438 675 404
E: comms@coolgardie.wa.gov.au
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