Toowoomba City Council’s entry in the International Nations in Bloom competition has won a bronze award as one of the most liveable cities in the world. Currently in its sixth year, Nations in Bloom aims to encourage best practice, innovation and leadership to develop improved quality of life in individual communities.
Toowoomba entered the competition for the first time this year and reached the final judging round. It was one of three Australian finalists and was the only finalist from Queensland.
Mayor Dianne Thorley said the competition has given Council an opportunity to highlight its various projects, initiatives and practices that maintain and enhance Toowoomba’s quality of life.
“This is the first time Council has submitted an entry in the competition and it provides us with an opening to promote the unique qualities our city has to offer,” she said.“Toowoomba’s entry was an ideal way to promote various initiatives, such as Council’s CBD revitalisation project,its commitment to heritage management and improved environmental practices, including the upgrade of the Waste Management Centre and the Gowrie Creek Management Strategy.”
Mayor Thorley said that Toowoomba was up against some very stiff competition and while not winning the section, had emerged with international recognition.Each entrant must address criteria including enhancing the landscape; heritage management; environmentally sensitive practices; community involvement; and future planning initiatives.
It is the world’s only competition highlighting good environmental management and the creation of livable communities. The awards were presented in December, at Shenzhen in China.
For further information contact Barbara Ryan, Corporate Communications Manager, telephone (07) 4688 6611.
