Finalists for NSW Crown Land Awards

Some of NSW’s most dedicated Crown land managers have been recognised as finalists in statewide awards for outstanding efforts managing public reserves for the benefit of their local communities.

Crown Lands in the Department of Planning and Environment is sponsoring three categories of the 2023 Community Achievement Awards for NSW and the ACT. A total of 13 finalists have been named across the three categories:

• Individual Excellence in Crown Land Management Award for outstanding individuals who are a member of an organisation or committee that manages a Crown reserve.
• Crown Land Management Excellence Award for outstanding organisations that are involved in the care, control or management of a Crown reserve; and
• Council Crown Land Management Excellence Award for local councils that have done an outstanding job in managing Crown reserves.

Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper congratulated the finalists for their efforts.

“There are thousands of Crown land reserves across the state with individual volunteers, community boards and local councils all playing a major part in helping maintain and improve public land and assets for their local communities,” Mr Kamper said.

“From management of recreational facilities and nature reserves to public halls and showgrounds, these Crown land managers are setting the standard for community work. I congratulate all finalists and wish them the best of the luck at the awards night.”

The Award winners will be announced on 25 November in Sydney with each to receive prizes worth more than $1,800 including membership to The Career College and a Reflections Holiday Parks gift voucher and trophy.

All finalists will also be entered into a People’s Choice Award with community members able to vote for their favourite through the Community Achievement Awards’ Facebook page.  For further information visit Community Achievement Awards | Awards Australia

INDIVIDUAL EXCELLENCE IN CROWN LAND MANAGEMENT AWARD FINALISTS:

Christine Adams of Broken Hill – Christine is the driving force of the Sulphide Street Railway and Historical Museum serving since 2008 as secretary, treasurer, and curator to develop new museum spaces and foster community through open days and volunteer initiatives. This year Christine was inducted into Broken Hill’s Nydia Edes Volunteer Hall of Fame for her dedicated efforts.

Debbie Coddington of Temora - Debbie is the powerhouse behind the Bectric Recreation Reserve and its historic Bectric Hall where as secretary, caretaker, grant seeker and promoter she has supported events, driven improvements including to the camp kitchen and hall restorations, coordinated fundraising, and even mows the reserve lawn and maintains its tennis courts.

Harold Gibson of Corlette – For 34 years Harold has been a devoted member of the Nelson Head Lighthouse Reserve Management Committee and a driving force that helps it attract over 140,000 annual visitors. Harold’s dedication, knowledge and tours have made the reserve a beloved site for locals and tourists as well as its well-kept scenic grounds of historic significance.

Neil Rose of Norah Head - Neil has served the Norah Head Lighthouse Reserve Land Manager Board since 2013 and chaired it since 2018 leading the transformation of the reserve into an iconic destination that attracts over 120,000 annual visitors. Neil's leadership has preserved fragile ecosystems, safeguarded Aboriginal heritage and driven many upgrades to the reserve.

Suzi Hardwick of Albury - Suzi’s work as secretary of the Albury Showground Land Manager has propelled the organisation forward by digitising its systems and making it more efficient. Suzi has also driven a masterplan to improve the showground and support activities that range from camping upgrades, hosting of the annual show, and a wide variety of community events.

CROWN LAND MANAGEMENT EXCELLENCE AWARD FINALISTS:

Bottle Bend Reserve Land Manager of Monak - the volunteers of the 1,650-hectare reserve have overseen its transformation from a state forest into a treasured asset of cultural and environmental significance alongside the Murray River.  Volunteers have used partnerships and grants to protect native plants, animals and cultural sites while upgrading recreation infrastructure.

Lake Liddell Recreation Area Reserve Land Manager of Muswellbrook - the volunteers of this 133-hectare reserve have created a vibrant lakeside hub through grants and upgrades that have driven a surge in visits. The reserve hosts camping, caravanning and diverse recreation activities supported by a commitment to partnerships with local organisations and ongoing site improvements.

Newcastle Historic Reserve Land Manager - the reserve’s volunteers are custodians of local history committed to heritage preservation, artist support and community involvement. The team oversees historic buildings dating to the mid-nineteenth century with its centrepiece, The Lock-Up, a leading arts organisation with innovative exhibitions attracting over 43,500 visitors over the past five years.

Tingha Recreation Reserve Land Managers – volunteer retirees have breathed new life into the reserve securing over $200,000 in grants for infrastructure improvements including a new hall floor, enhanced lighting, and security cameras to support community activities from ANZAC Day commemorations to family fun days, fostering community spirit and pride in the town of Tingha.

COUNCIL CROWN LAND MANAGEMENT EXCELLENCE AWARD FINALISTS:

Inner West Council - the council’s parks, planning and ecology team transformed the 21-hectare Marrickville Parklands into an urban oasis through a partnership with Marrickville Golf, Sporting and Community Club and community volunteers. The parklands include a golf course, restored waterhole, scenic pathways and diverse activities to connect people, nature and local heritage.

Penrith City Council - the council has restored an historic 115-year-old former Police Cottage into a thriving cafe and restaurant on a Crown reserve near the Nepean River. The project supported multiple community benefits including dining, recreation, employment and heritage while preserving over 80% of the cottage’s original materials.

Tenterfield Shire Council - the council has transformed the two-hectare Old Power House Reserve through creation of a dynamic Youth Precinct adding to a range of recreational, social and cultural activities. Reserve infrastructure includes a skatepark, mountain bike skills track, yarning circle and accessible pathways that foster inclusivity and accessibility for people of all ages.

Tweed Shire Council - council improvements to the Jack Evans Boat Harbour reserve have created a thriving destination including a scenic waterfront park and activities including boating, picnicking,  nature education, outdoor fitness classes, art exhibitions and other cultural events, community gardens, and an inclusive play-space.