Canning's Inaugural Diplomatic Reception Elevates City's Global Profile
The City of Canning positioned itself at the centre of international attention last week, hosting its inaugural Consuls General Reception. Mayor Patrick Hall welcomed twelve consuls general, consuls, and honorary consuls representing a diverse array of nations, including the United States, China, Great Britain, India, Malaysia, Indonesia, Greece, Mongolia, Morocco, Thailand, and Korea.
Mayor Hall described the event as a pioneering initiative within Western Australia's local government sector. "Many nations have consulates in Perth, and over my time as mayor, I have met almost all of them individually at various events and celebrations," Mr Hall stated. "They are wonderful people, high-level diplomats who take a keen interest in trade opportunities. I decided it was time to invite them all to Canning."
Showcasing Economic Powerhouses and Global Business Reach
The diplomatic delegation received comprehensive tours and presentations focusing on Canning's premier commercial precincts in Welshpool and Canning Vale. Mayor Hall emphasised the city's strategic roles as a major food hub, a centre for engineering and manufacturing, and a leader in warehousing and distribution.
"These precincts underpin Canning's position as one of the State's largest local economies, with a gross regional product approaching $13 billion," Mr Hall explained. "They support thousands of jobs, drive freight, logistics, and manufacturing activity, and play a critical role in the State's overall economy."
Specific examples highlighted the global scale of businesses operating within the city. The Geraldton Fishermen's Co-Operative's Welshpool facility was noted as the largest live rock lobster storage facility in the southern hemisphere, playing a vital role in exporting Western Australian seafood to international markets.
Business Leaders and Strategic Advantages Highlighted
The reception also featured presentations from leading local business representatives, including Perth Markets CEO Scott Gibson, Matt Kailis of Kailis Brothers, Frank and Tina Fusco from Camco Engineering, Rebecca Blackman from Farm Direct, and Westfield Carousel centre manager Jacqueline McKenzie.
"The city's focus during discussions was squarely on economic development, trade, investment, and the strength of our industrial and commercial base," Mayor Hall added. He detailed Canning's strategic advantages, including its central metropolitan location, proximity to Perth Airport, strong road connections to Fremantle Port, and established logistics infrastructure, which collectively make it a natural hub for freight, fresh food processing, warehousing, advanced manufacturing, and export-oriented industries.
The event, attended by councillors and the city's entire executive team, was designed to foster valuable networking. "The reception provided a platform to highlight economic and trade opportunities within our industrial precincts and reinforce Canning's role in facilitating investment, trade, and long-term business growth," Mr Hall said.
Continued Global Engagement and Council Debate
This diplomatic initiative aligns with a broader strategy to promote Canning internationally. Late last year, councillors voted to fund Mayor Hall's attendance at the upcoming World Cities Summit in Singapore, scheduled for June 14 to 16 at the Suntec Singapore Convention & Exhibition Centre.
Mayor Hall received a personal invitation from Singapore's National Development Minister, Chee Hong Tat. The invitation covers registration, accommodation, airport transfers, transportation between event venues, and meals. The City of Canning is responsible for funding transport to and from Perth Airport, return airfares, and incidentals, estimated at approximately $1600.
The decision was not unanimous. Councillors Ben Kunze and Michelle Hurn voted against the plan, arguing that international travel falls outside the mayor's core responsibilities. Cr Kunze acknowledged Mayor Hall's strong advocacy but stated, "We are proud of Canning and we rightfully see it as an important component of WA. However, as a local government municipality, we're not a world city. This is not to put Canning down, but to recognise our place within the City of Perth."
Despite this opposition, councillors ultimately voted 7-2 in favour of the trip. City staff supported the decision, stating it is "both appropriate and beneficial for the mayor to represent the City of Canning at this event, engaging with mayors and civic leaders from around the world." The summit is promoted as a global platform for government leaders and industry experts to address challenges related to liveable and sustainable cities, share integrated urban solutions, and forge new international partnerships.
