New appointments announced for Burswood Park Board

Former Western Australian Government Minister Bill Johnston and Town of Victoria Park Mayor Karen Vernon have been appointed to the Burswood Park Board, which manages the 53-hectare parkland on the banks of Perth's Swan River.

The Board comprises five members and reports to the Racing and Gaming Minister.

Johnston will take up the role of president, replacing former Member of Parliament John McGrath who was appointed in March 2022 and retired in March 2025.

Mayor Vernon is replacing Deputy Mayor Bronwyn Ife as the Town of Victoria Park representative on the Board.

Johnston brings 17 years of experience as Minister and a long-serving Member of Parliament.

Mayor Vernon was a Town of Victoria Park Councillor since 2017 and has been Mayor for the past six years.

WA Racing and Gaming Minister Paul Papalia advised "as the new president of the Burswood Park Board, Bill will bring his vast skills and experience to the role at a time when there are major development plans for this important area of Perth.

"Ms Vernon has strong links to the local community through her role on the council and this will provide continued input into the Board's discussions and decision-making processes.

"I extend a warm welcome to the incoming Board members and thank both outgoing president Mr John McGrath and member Ms Bronwyn Ife for their contributions while on the board."