COUNCIL'S WIN BORDERLESS COMMUNITIES AWARD AT THE 2024 NSW LOCAL GOVERNMENT EXCELLENCE AWARDS

Moree Plains Shire Council with Balonne Shire Council have received an Excellence Award in the ‘Borderless Communities’ category at the NSW Local Government 2024 Excellence Awards in Sydney Thursday 6 June. 

This award acknowledges the exemplary cross-border collaboration efforts of both Shires in fostering positive relationships, enhancing communication and cooperation, and working together to find innovative solutions to common issues.

The annual Local Government Professionals Awards recognises and acknowledges Councils who have established collaborative agreements with neighbouring jurisdictions to implement practical actions that improve social, economic, wellbeing outcomes for their community.

Moree Plains Shire Council Mayor Mark Johnson is honoured to announce this exciting win for the community.

“This award highlights our successful partnership with Balonne Shire Council to address shared challenges, promote economic development and improve overall quality of life for residents on both sides of the border.”
 
“This successful collaboration between the two Councils has delivered projects that include the Mungindi water security project, water cooling tower, the pump track, the Mungindi boat ramp, beautification of the Mungindi River Park, the investigation into Childcare and the 2023 Christmas festivities. 

“The award also recognises the hard work and dedication of Local Government employees and officials in providing exceptional service to the residents of both Shires,” said Mayor Johnson.

Balonne Shire Mayor Samantha O’Toole welcomed news of this award that celebrates both Council’s ongoing and successful collaboration to support the community of Mungindi. 

“Having our township of Mungindi straddling the border between Queensland and New South Wales has presented more than its fair share of challenges,” said Mayor O’Toole.

“We are so grateful for the great working relationship we share with Moree Plains Shire Council.

“Our Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Moree Plains has allowed us to seamlessly deliver a broad range of projects and initiatives for the Mungindi community. 

“The MOU really has been a great demonstration of the successes that can come about when two cross-border Shires team up to deliver for their local community.

“By working closely together, our Council’s have broken down the barriers of a border, creating a more connected and cohesive society in Mungindi, and more broadly, the two Shires.

“This award is a welcomed and significant recognition of the efforts of both Council’s in promoting collaboration, unity and inclusivity across borders."

ENDS