Crown Lands Award Winners announced
Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper congratulates Broken Hill’s Christine Adams, Tenterfield Shire Council and Tingha Recreation Reserve Land Managers for winning awards for excellence in Crown land management at the 2023 Community Achievement Awards for NSW and the ACT.
The NSW Government through Crown Lands sponsored three award categories, recognising outstanding contributions by individuals, community boards and local councils in managing community land on Crown reserves.
NSW has more than 34,000 Crown reserves covering about 3.1 million hectares. These reserves include showgrounds, parks, sporting venues, caravan parks, community halls and more.
More than 900 organisations manage Crown reserves, partnering with the NSW Government to ensure public lands are enjoyed by the community. There are over 2,500 volunteer members of Crown land manager organisations as well as many others involved in council-appointed committees.
More than 6,500 Crown reserves are also managed by 128 local councils across NSW.
Together, these public lands foster community spirit by providing shared spaces, supporting tourism, the environment and local businesses.
There were 13 finalists across the three Crown Lands awards from regions as diverse as Sydney, the Far West, Hunter, Riverina, Northern Tablelands, Central Coast, Murray, Far North Coast and New England.
Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said:
“I applaud the three winners of the Crown land management awards. All three have shown steadfast commitment to enhance public land for their communities, either through preserving heritage, upgrading facilities, or making reserves more dynamic and accessible for all.”
“Crown land plays a vital role in creating and supporting prosperous and resilient communities. The winners, along with the finalists, have set a gold standard for community work and I thank them all for outstanding service.”
More details about the award winners:
Individual Excellence in Crown Land Management Award winner Christine Adams: Christine is the engine behind the Sulphide Street Railway and Historical Museum in Broken Hill. Since 2008, she has served as secretary, treasurer and curator. Under her stewardship, the museum expanded to include the Migrant Museum, Transport Pavilion, and more. She also cultivates a vibrant community spirit through public open days, allowing locals and tourists to appreciate Sulphide Street Railway and Historical Museum’s rich cultural history. Her outstanding dedication to the Broken Hill community was further recognised this year when Christine was inducted into the 2023 Nydia Edes Volunteer Hall of Fame.
Council Crown Land Management Excellence Award winner Tenterfield Shire Council: Tenterfield Shire Council has transformed its two-hectare Power House Reserve into a dynamic Youth Precinct with a vast array of recreational, social and cultural activities. After extensive collaboration with the local community, the Council constructed a skatepark, mountain bike skills track, yarning circle and accessible pathways, helping create a thriving space for all ages to enjoy.
Crown Land Management Excellence Award winner Tingha Recreation Reserve Managers: This group of dedicated volunteer retirees has done a phenomenal job of revitalising the reserve by securing over $200,000 in grants for infrastructure upgrades, including a new hall floor, enhanced lighting and security cameras. The extensive improvements support community activities and have fostered a sense of community pride in the town of Tingha.
Each winner will also receive $2,000 prize package and a trophy for their efforts.