THE strong community links which brought Penola’s Town Square project to life have been recognised through the SA Local Government Association’s outstanding partnership award.
Not-for-profit organisation Mainstreet SA commended the joint partnership between Wattle Range Council and the community which brought to fruition the long-term vision for a central public space for Penola.
Project advocate Anne Johnson AM and council operations manager Graham Knaggs received the accolade on behalf of the Penola Town Square Working Group and the wider community at a recent awards night in Adelaide.
There were several high calibre award finalists listed, many of which were significant projects completed by larger metropolitan councils.
The award recognises outstanding examples of partnerships between businesses, community and government to create and deliver projects in a main street or precinct, of which the Penola Town Square proved an outstanding example.
The space is the result of a vision dating back over two decades, brought about through extensive partnerships between council, the Penola Town Square Working Group, community organisations, businesses and individuals.
The project was also listed as a finalist in the best regional main street category.
“Council is honoured to receive recognition for our part in this project, but also acknowledges the persistence, support and contribution provided by the working group, volunteer organisations, businesses and individuals of Penola,” Wattle Range chief executive officer Ben Gower said.
“It is a fantastic outcome for an outstanding community asset that is already proving to be well utilised.
“We look forward to continuing our relationship with these stakeholders to ensure the continual enhancement of the space and its use.”
