Plaque awarded to Council in recognition of prestigious Bluett Award

The AR Bluett Memorial Award trustees—Les McMahon, Genia McCaffery, and Paul Braybrooks—visited Lake Macquarie City Council to present the prestigious Bluett Award plaque in recognition of the Council’s outstanding achievements.  

The ceremony, which took place at the Windale Hub, bilyabayi was attended by Lake Macquarie Mayor Adam Shultz, Councillors and Council staff who contributed to the initiatives that earned the city this esteemed recognition.  

The award marks Lake Macquarie’s second win since 2012 and solidifying its reputation as a leader in local government. 

The AR Bluett Memorial Award is regarded as the highest accolade for NSW councils, celebrating excellence, innovation, and dedication to community service. 

Lake Macquarie City Council was named the 2024 winner in the City and Regional Councils category at the Local Government NSW Annual Conference in Tamworth, an achievement that underscores the Council’s commitment to progressive and sustainable growth. 

Lake Macquarie Mayor Adam Shultz expressed his gratitude for the recognition, attributing the success to the hard work and dedication of Council staff and elected representatives. 

“This award is a testament to the passion and effort of everyone at Lake Macquarie City Council,” he said. 

From the front-line staff maintaining our city’s infrastructure to the strategic teams planning for our future, it is their hard work that has made this possible,” Mayor Shultz said. 

Key projects highlighted in Council’s award nomination included: 

• Fernleigh Awabakal Shared Track – an innovative, environmentally sensitive shared pathway connecting communities. 

• Windale Hub, bilyabayi – a state-of-the-art community facility providing essential services and fostering local engagement. 

• Inclusive tourism enhancements – a shift across Lake Macquarie Holiday Parks sites to better accommodate diverse visitor needs. 

• Transition to a bookable bulky waste service – an initiative aimed at improving waste management and sustainability. 

The Bluett Award plaque will serve as a lasting reminder of Council’s commitment to excellence, inspiring continued progress and innovation in the years ahead.