Awards for Local Government excellence

:The Minister for Family and Community Services, Senator Kay Patterson, last night presented awards at the 2005 National Awards for Local Government to winners for outstanding achievements in child care, strengthening communities, partnerships and Indigenous communities.

“I am particularly pleased to have presented an award for contributions to child care because it’s the first time in the 20 year history of the Awards that there is a child care category,” Senator Patterson said.

“Hornsby Shire Council, (NSW) won the Valuing and Promoting Quality Child Care Award for its Somerville Park Early Childhood Education Centre. The Centre provides long day care, which specifically benefits families working
full-time, families from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds and children with disabilities.

“The rural category winner, Northern Grampians Shire Council (Vic) was recognised for planning and establishing the St Arnaud Children’s Precinct which opened in February this year.

“The Precinct offers a 30 place Long Day Care facility, Maternal and Child Health Centre, Specialist Children’s Services, Outside School Hours Care, Family Day Care coordination and a 45 place preschool.

“This is a prime example of the key role local councils can play in relation to child care. They are best placed to know their community’s needs and the North Grampians Shire Council shows what effective planning can achieve.

“I congratulate all the winners of this year’s Awards which highlight and reward the hard work and initiative of local councils,” Senator Patterson said.

Attached are details of other award winners presented by Senator Patterson.

Awards

Strengthening Indigenous Community Award

The City of Onkaparinga, South Australia developed connections between Indigenous people and broader community, by increasing awareness around cultural heritage, language and the local environment.

Hobsons Bay City Council, Victoria and the Yarrabah Aboriginal Community in Queensland established the groundbreaking ‘sister cities’ friendship relationship to enhance learning and understanding between the two groups.

Strong and Resilient Communities Award

Salisbury Council, South Australia provides of a range of services at local schools for at risk families for the benefit of children, parents, schools and the broader community.

Rural/Small Council winner, Northern Midlands Council, Tasmania implemented its Troutification of Cressy project, which saw the town’s streetscapes and facilities revitalised and its historical fishing village identity renewed.

The Community Business Partnerships Award

Hume City Council, Victoria developed the Hume Global Learning Village project, an innovative approach to education, offering opportunities for a culturally diverse and educationally disadvantaged community.

Rural/Small Council winner, Warroo Shire Council, Queensland established the Surat Grain Centre, which has boosted harvest returns and local businesses.