Tweed Shire Council has been crowned winner of the NSW Government Council Crown Land Management Excellence Award for its upgrade of Jack Evans Boat Harbour at Tweed Heads.
The revitalised facilities were officially opened earlier this year with improved swimming access and youth recreational opportunities for residents and visitors to the Tweed's premier public park.
Council was congratulated at the 2024 Community Achievement Awards for NSW and the ACT on Friday 1 November for creating an inclusive urban parkland that serves as a gathering place for families, fostering fun and promoting opportunities for people to be active and healthy.
Council was further praised for its commitment to community engagement in designing a space that Tweed residents can enjoy now and into the future.
Mayor of Tweed Shire Chris Cherry acknowledged the fabulous achievement and praised the collaborative effort of all staff involved in the design, construction and management of the revitalised park.
"This recognition reflects the collaborative spirit of everyone who has contributed to transforming this area into a vibrant hub for recreation and tourism," Cr Cherry said.
"Jack Evans Boat Harbour is a great spot for swimming and relaxed recreation. Transforming this park, while being true to what the community wants, has ensured it has become even more loved than before. It's great for the team's work to be recognised like this – congratulations to everyone involved!"
Over the past two years, the Jack Evans Boat Harbour precinct has seen several important revitalisation projects including:
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a regional inclusive playspace known as Goorimahbah Place of Stories
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dedicated youth recreation area including a half-basketball court and skate area
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replacement of existing timber decking with tiered composite decking
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installation of shade structures and umbrellas for sun protection
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accessible picnic facilities and seating
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improved landscaping and additional tree planting
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pathway connections
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bike racks
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plantings reflecting Aboriginal cultural connections
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public art.
The upgrades were informed by the Jack Evans Boat Harbour (JEBH) Plan of Management, developed in consultation with the community, which guides current and future planning and management of the precinct.