Shirley Mackay was born and raised in Fremantle. She was educated at St. Joseph's College, and worked for two well know Fremantle Companies - Tropical Traders, then in Queen Victoria Street, and Sandovers which was situated on the current Myers site at the corner of Queen and Newman Streets. She established her ballroom dancing school (Shirley Bickley's) in Hilton in 1965.

Shirley and her family have lived in Long Street in Beaconsfield for 35 years. Her two sons were educated at St. Brendan's College in Beaconsfield. Her husband, Alastair, founded the highly successful Fremantle United Soccer Club. Alastair continues to be actively involved with the Club. He was also president of the Hilton Progress Association for 25 years.

Shirley has been vocally and energetically representing the residents of Beaconsfield and Hilton since she was elected to Council in 1988. She shares the distinction of being the longest currently serving Fremantle City Councillor, and served as Deputy Mayor in 1996.