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Young managers lead the way

Each year, Local Government Managers Australia (LGMA) Queensland recognises the contribution and efforts of young managers in Local Government who have made innovative and valuable contributions to their community and their workplace through the Young Manager Award for Leadership and Management Excellence.

In 2007, the nominations were strong and judges were impressed with the variety of skills and talent employed within the industry. Many candidates showed exceptional leadership skills and used these to positively impact their community and improve processes and systems within Council.

The applicants were assessed against the criteria of visionary leadership, innovation and change, best practice, interpersonal skills and contribution to the community.

From the many applications received, the judging panel had a hard job selecting a winner, so hard in fact, that this year it was decided to award two outstanding applicants with the joint title of the 2007 Young Manager Award for Leadership and Management Excellence. The winners this year are Alex Coulthard from Mackay City Council and Kent Stroud from Pine Rivers Shire Council.

Alex has worked tirelessly in the field of information technology and was responsible for the development and implementation of a system that has been publicly recognised for improving business efficiency within Council and service to the community. 

Kent has had diverse Local Government experience. This depth and breadth of work has had immediate positive impact on the communities that he has served. He has shown visionary leadership and has given his time generously to those around him and is clearly one of our future leaders.

The winners received funding for a personal or professional development activity of their choice, and a complimentary registration to the LGMA National Congress, which was held in Hobart in May. LGMA congratulates our winners and wishes them all the best for their future in Local Government.

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