With City Pride judging under way, Victoria’s current title holder, the City of Whittlesea says innovation and recognition of the judges’ knowledge of Local Government are the keys to success.
The City won the overall title, three category awards and four special commendations in the 1999 judging. Mayor, Councillor Sam Alessi said the City Pride win was a great boost for Whittlesea.
“It is one thing to firmly believe we are doing a good job of serving the residents of one of Melbourne’s major growth areas &endash; it is another to have independent experts agree with us,” he said.
Along with the title, Whittlesea’s entry won the following.
- Proud Primary School
- Best Tourist Attraction
- Best Industrial Site
Whittlesea’s Acting CEO, David Turnbull, said that one of the winning facets of the City’s entry was an Internet style presentation on CD.
“The CD contained a virtual version of the judges’ tour, complete with photographs and details explaining each of the projects,” he said.
“The same virtual tour has been a popular part of Whittlesea’s website www.whittlesea.vic.gov.au, ever since.”
The judges’ tour was tailored to answer the questions of experienced Local Government professionals.
“Presentation was important, but we knew the substance had to be there to back it,” David Turnbull said.
“Each stop included a short, effective presentation from someone directly involved in the project.”
The Mayor has stressed the importance of all of the community groups involved in Whittlesea’s win &endash; as evidenced by its list of four awards, four commendations and some shortlisted projects.
The title ‘Proud City’ has boosted the City’s recognition in the Local Government industry, and helped it to the top of its group in Victoria’s independent survey of customer satisfaction.
“It also gave us a chance to take a good look at our performance and assess it in a critical light &endash; something that can only benefit our residents,” Councillor Alessi concluded.
For further information contact Peter Beaton, Public Relations Officer, telephone (03) 9217 2383.
