My Story
Bassendean has been home to my family for generations, and it holds a special place in my heart. My grandparents and great-grandparents were well-known in the community, running a bakery out of their garage. My parents built their first home here, and it is where they brought me home as a newborn. Now, my husband and I have chosen Bassendean as the place to raise our own children because this community means so much to us.
My professional journey started in health care as a physiotherapist, specialising in helping people with neurological conditions regain their independence. I’ve also been a university lecturer at Curtin’s Faculty of Health Sciences, run my own medical assessment service, and now serve on the Mental Health Tribunal, safeguarding the rights of patients undergoing psychiatric treatment in WA.
For the past decade, I’ve also dedicated myself to local leadership, serving as a community representative, Councillor, Deputy Mayor, and Mayor. Becoming a mum brought new purpose to my life and deepened my commitment to creating a better future for my kids and everyone's kids. Investing in the community they would grow up in seemed like a natural choice.
Of course, my most important role is being Mum to my two children. Like any parent, I want them to grow up in a world that’s fair, just, and sustainable. That’s what drives me—to make sure the future we’re building is a bright one.
Community and connection have always been at the heart of all I do. I’ve started initiatives like the "Share Shed Bassendean" and the "Bassendean Repair Café" to bring people together in our area. I’m involved with groups like WA Tree Canopy Advocates, serve as a Justice of the Peace, and sit on the board of Eden Hill Primary School.
My life has been committed to improving the health and wellbeing of individuals and communities so that they can thrive and flourish. Through this I have come to realise that the biggest threat to our collective wellbeing is the climate crisis. The most important thing we can do to ensure a bright future is to look after one another, take care our earth and live in harmony with nature. I will always make decisions that are in the best interests of people and our planet.
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Renée McLennan
Community Independent for Bassendean
