Narrabri Shire named as finalists for LG Excellence Awards

Published on 22 April 2024

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Narrabri Shire Council has been named as finalists in four categories at this year’s NSW Local Government Excellence Awards.

The awards celebrate and highlight outstanding achievements by NSW councils and showcase the work being undertaken across the state.

Narrabri Shire Council General Manager Rob Williams said Council was thrilled to be recognised for the awards.

“The recognition of Narrabri in four categories for the Local Government Excellence Awards is a fantastic achievement,” he said.

"These awards provide a platform to showcase the important work being undertaken across the services we deliver, while demonstrating the breadth of talent and dedication across Council.

“The teams behind these projects for which Council is being recognised, live and work alongside their local community and are committed to achieving the best outcomes for residents and wider Narrabri Shire population.

“To be recognised at this state-wide level is something to be proud of, not just within Council, but across our wider Shire,” Mr Williams added.

Winners will be announced at the LG Awards Dinner on Thursday, 6 June 2024.

Narrabri Shire was named as finalists in the following categories:

Supporting Local Enterprise – Narrabri CBD Revitalisation Project

Council initiated this three-year revitalisation project in response to COVID-19 and prolonged periods of drought, to revive the local economy, enhance the CBD’s appeal and foster community engagement.

It included infrastructure upgrades, establishment of events, business workshops, and programs including the Christmas Activation and shop local gift card scheme.

Community Partnerships (under 150,000) – Development of the Community Financial Assistance Grant (CFAG) Program

Council's Community Financial Assistance Grant (CFAG) program has delivered significant results since its inception. This includes improving grant governance, streamlining the grant process, increasing accessibility for community groups, and fostering positive relationships between the Council and community.

Borderless Communities – multi-agency task combats Frogbit infestation in North-West NSW

Council Officers, upon discovering an infestation of Frogbit (a Prohibited Matter under the state’s Biosecurity Act 2015), recognised the importance of a broader regional response.

This resulted in a multi-agency, cross-border effort and innovative community engagement campaign to combat the Frogbit infestation across several shires.

Special Project Initiative (under 150,000) – WaterRIDE: Community-facing online flood portal

Council partnered with WaterRIDE LITE to develop a community-facing, free online flood portal to address the growing need for accessible flood information – particularly in the wake of significant flooding incidents.

This portal significantly aids local emergency services and improves the community's resilience to flooding events.

More information about the awards can be found at www.lgprofessionals.com.au/Awards/Awards/Award-Categories.aspx