Murrumbidgee Council has been nominated for a NSW/ACT 2024 Community Achievement Award.
It has been named as a finalist in the NSW Government Council Crown Land Management Excellence Award category for its work at Elliott Park in Jerilderie.
Located adjacent to the popular Lake Jerilderie precinct, the park has become more of a community hub since the establishment of two major assets - the Jerilderie Skate Park and Pump Track and the Jerilderie Early Learning Centre.
These projects were developed in response to community feedback and both funded by the NSW Government, with additional contributions from the Federal Government for the Jerilderie Early Learning Centre.
Since opening in 2022, the $363,000 Skate Park and Pump Track is well-used daily.
It provides a dynamic space for active recreation and have been complemented by events such as free 'learn to skate' workshops, which further engage the community.
The $1.63 million Jerilderie Early Learning Centre, also opened in 2022, addresses a crucial need for local childcare by offering 48 places for children from birth to age five.
This facility supports working families and enhances community connections by reducing the need for families to travel to neighbouring towns for childcare.
In addition to these facilities, Elliott Park includes an amenity block on the Newell Highway side, which travellers highly value for rest stops due to its ample parking and ease of access.
The park’s design thoughtfully integrates these assets with preserved green spaces, ensuring it remains a popular destination for exercise, leisure and community gatherings.
Between 2023 and 2024 several additional initiatives have been undertaken by the council at the park, further enhancing the community's quality of life and reinforcing the reserve's status as a dynamic hub.
Notable improvements include the construction of a footpath along the edge of Mahonga St, which has greatly improved accessibility.
Additionally, the Jerilderie Apex Club has purchased shade structures and tables, which will be installed soon. This initiative builds on the club's previous contribution of a water bubbler for the park in 2022.
The park has been maintained in excellent condition with input from council staff, local school children (as part of Clean Up Australia Day) and the dedicated team of Jerilderie Tidy Towns volunteers.
Judging for the awards will take place this month, with winners to be announced at the 2024 Community Achievement Awards gala presentation dinner on November 1.