Progress requires a change in attitude by governments. That is the message retiring President, Councillor Peter Woods gave to delegates at the Local Government Association of New South Wales Annual Conference.
“The strength of Local Government is in its inclusiveness,” he said. “Parochial interests will not provide strong Local Government. We have to be progressive and do so by not being so divisive.” The 2002 Annual Conference was held in Broken Hill from 26 to 30 October.
“Councils need to recognise the significance of cultural issues and understand the problems of others,” Councillor Woods said. “I see this as being extremely important for Local Government as community leaders, and the closest level of government to the people.”
Reflecting on the past 12 years as President, Councillor Woods had no regrets about his role as a leader and an advocate of Local Government.
“I am grateful for being given the opportunity to articulate the concerns of Local Government and bring together parties of all varying viewpoints on issues of common interest,” he said. “The greatest achievement for me was the chance to give encouragement to Local Government and see the proper acknowledgment given to Councils for their outstanding work.”
And in regards to his future, Councillor Woods had this to say.
“I have not seriously considered what’s next and might have a change of direction,” he said. “I don’t want to waste all the experiences that I have gained and will make myself available to contribute for the good of the community.”
The Councillor Pat Dixon Memorial Scholarship was also launched during the conference. This scholarship will assist the careers of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Councillors and Council employees, enabling at least two recipients to undertake tertiary and workshop based studies in Local Government. The scholarship has been funded by contributions from NSW Councils and the State Government. It will be administered by Lgov NSW.
“This scholarship will provide ongoing recognition of Councillor Dixon’s contribution to Local Government and encourage more Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to enter Local Government,” said President of the Shires Association of NSW, Councillor Mike Montgomery.
