Chinchilla Botanic Parkland continues to gain international recognition with the recent presentation of its third consecutive Green Flag Award.
The prestigious Green Flag Award scheme recognises excellence in the management of parks and green spaces around the world and sets the benchmark standard for the management of recreational outdoor spaces.
Council Spokesperson for Recreational Spaces and Cemeteries Councillor Carolyn Tillman said the Botanic Parkland is only one of three Green Flag Award recipients in Queensland, which is an outstanding achievement for the region.
"The Chinchilla Botanic Parkland is one of our region's premiere public spaces. Last year it was awarded 'Park of the Year' at the Queensland Parks and Leisure Australia Annual Awards, so it's fantastic to see the Botanic Parkland receiving such widespread recognition," Cr Tillman said.
"Popular with locals and visitors alike, the Botanic Parkland is the perfect spot for everything from a picnic to large-scale community events.
"Not only are accolades like the Green Flag a point of pride for our communities, they also encourage tourists to visit the Western Downs and see for themselves the active, vibrant communities and world-class recreational spaces we have to enjoy.
"This award shows that it is possible to provide world-class recreational green spaces in rural and regional communities and ensure that everybody has access to quality green spaces, irrespective of where they live."
Attaining a Green Flag involves a rigorous examination, including a site visit by a jury of green space experts who assess applicants against eight strict criteria, including horticultural standards, cleanliness, sustainability and community involvement. To ensure that the high standards associated with holding a Green Flag are maintained, winners must re-apply each year to renew their Green Flag accreditation status.
Chinchilla Botanic Parkland Quality Officer Rosemary Lovatt said that the Award was a testament to the hard work of Western Downs Regional Council's Parks and Open Spaces team in ensuring the Parkland always looks its best.
"Being able to proudly fly the Green Flag at the main entrance to the Chinchilla Botanic Parkland signifies that a regional council can achieve international excellence and provide the community with a great sense of pride," she said.
The Chinchilla Botanic Parkland showcases the region's diverse native flora and rich history, offering a wide variety of attractions including the megafauna discovery centre, a state-of-the-art water play area, parkour equipment and an outdoor amphitheatre.
