08-07-2026
Upper Lachlan Shire Council is celebrating another significant achievement after being named a finalist in two categories of the Local Government NSW (LGNSW) Local Government Week Awards 2026, with winners to be announced in Sydney on 6 August.
Council has been shortlisted in the LGNSW Planning Awards – Planning Initiative category, recognising excellence in strategic planning and innovation, and in the RH Dougherty Award for Innovation in Special Events for the highly successful Upper Lachlan Arts and Heritage Trail.
The awards recognise outstanding achievements by councils across New South Wales and celebrate excellence, innovation and leadership in local government.
Chief Executive Officer Alex Waldron said the dual finalist recognition reflects the exceptional work being delivered by Council staff and the organisation’s commitment to achieving outstanding outcomes for its community.
“Being recognised as a finalist in two prestigious state awards is an outstanding achievement for an organisation of our size and demonstrates that Upper Lachlan Shire Council continues to punch well above its weight,” Mr Waldron said.
“These nominations are a credit to our talented and dedicated staff, whose innovation, professionalism and commitment continue to deliver projects and initiatives that make a genuine difference for our communities. They consistently demonstrate that great ideas, strong collaboration and a willingness to challenge conventional thinking can achieve results that rival those of much larger organisations.”
The Upper Lachlan Arts and Heritage Trail has created a unique visitor experience that celebrates the region’s rich history, vibrant arts community and local identity, while generating new opportunities for tourism, economic development and community pride.
Council’s nominated Planning Initiative recognises innovative strategic planning that is helping shape the future of the Upper Lachlan through practical, evidence-based planning and strong community engagement to support sustainable growth and liveable communities.
Ms Waldron said the recognition continues a period of significant achievement for the organisation.
“Over recent years, Council has built a strong reputation for innovation, continuous improvement and delivering outstanding outcomes despite the challenges faced by rural councils. These nominations reinforce that our staff are delivering work of the highest standard and that Upper Lachlan is being recognised as a leader in local government across New South Wales.”
Council congratulates all finalists in this year’s LGNSW Local Government Week Awards and looks forward to celebrating the outstanding achievements of councils from across the state at the awards presentation in August.
