The Tweed Byron Bush Futures Project has been awarded the Natural Environment Protection and Enhancement: On-ground Works Award at the 2010/11 Local Government Excellence in the Environment Awards ceremony, held in Sydney last week.
The award was presented by NSW Environment Minister Robyn Parker and award sponsor, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service Acting Deputy Chief Executive, Environment and Heritage Policy and Programs Group, Bernard Carlon.
Now in their 14th year, the Local Government and Shires Associations of NSW (LGSA) Local Government Excellence in the Environment Awards recognise NSW councils for their accomplishments in managing and protecting the environment.
The Tweed Byron Bush Futures Project initially won Category C of the On-ground Works Award at the ceremony, based on the population size of the combined shires, and followed up by winning the overall category award from seven other finalists.
Bush Futures Project Manager, John Turnbull from Tweed Shire Council, said the win reflected the considerable efforts contributed by the project’s steering committee “who are very much a working committee with a hands-on role”.
“My congratulations and thanks also go to all Council staff, contractors, Landcarers, residents and others who have contributed to the Project as this award recognises an outstanding effort by all involved,” Mr Turnbull said.
“The award is a clear statement that the works being undertaken are seen by our peers across the State as a leading example of how bushland restoration, public education and involvement and commitment by Council to natural resource management can be undertaken.”
This award follows another win earlier this year for the project, which was awarded the Local Government Landcare Partnership Award at the 2011 NSW Landcare Awards in September.
Tweed mayor Barry Longland said the Tweed Shire was characterised by the need for an appropriate balance between the pressure of urban development and the protection and enhancement of the Tweed’s unique environment.
“This award recognises the dedication of our staff in their efforts to get the balance right,” Councillor Longland said.
“As well, it demonstrates how Council can work with the community to bring about desired environmental outcomes.”
“On behalf of Council, I congratulate all concerned for the efforts and enduring commitment,” Councillor Longland said.
President of the Shires Association of NSW, Cr Ray Donald, said that he was pleased to see the diverse and creative array of projects that NSW councils have developed for the 2011 Awards.
“What I enjoyed most was seeing such a high volume and calibre of entries this year, and from a diverse selection of councils from right across NSW,” he said.
“The results speak for themselves, with innovative solutions consistently being developed to solve complex problems, engage local communities and set a high standard for fellow councils.
“Councils are truly leading the way in environmental management, with many of the winning projects being picked up by other councils and organisations around Australia and overseas – a great testament to Local Government in NSW.”
Awards were presented in 12 categories, including the Natural Environment Protection and Enhancement Award, the Communication, Education and Empowerment Award and the Waste Avoidance Award.
Further details of all Awards and a full list of winners and finalists are available on the Local Government Excellence in the Environment Awards website www.lgsa-plus.net.au/EnvironmentAwards.
