2LT Local News

SYDNEY, NSW, Australia – Six councils have been recognised for leadership and innovation in planning and
development at the first NSW Local Government Planning Awards, including one from the region.

Blayney Shire Council has been named alongside Ku-ring-gai, Port Stephens, Sutherland Shire, Central Coast and Goulburn Mulwaree Council as award recipients

LGNSW President, Keith Rhoades said LGNSW received 23 entries for the awards presented by the Minister for Planning, Anthony Roberts, at a breakfast at Parliament House yesterday.

The inaugural awards, says the association, showcase the enthusiasm and dedication of these planning professionals, and the support offered by management and elected representatives – to look at what they do and how they do it, so they can initiate change and improve outcomes internally and for the community.

Finalists have shone a light on their processes; promoted co-operation and participation; taken a ‘customer first’ approach to their planning systems; and embraced innovative ways to streamline their work.

The award won by Blayney Shire was Excellence in Leadership, and recognised Mark Dicker, the council’s Director of Planning and Environmental Services for his outstanding individual contribution.

The citation said: ‘Mark has played a key role in supporting best practice planning within Blayney and the wider central west region. He has led a significant number of planning projects including the Blayney Masterplan, Cemetery Mapping program and contaminated lands policy project. Mark’s leadership and collaborative style has delivered a positive planning culture and helped ensure the vision of the region is reflected in the Central West and Orana Regional Plan.’

Photo: Mark (third on right) receiving his award.