The Griffith Community Private Hospital project took out first place in the Partnerships for Growth category, which recognises excellence in cross-council collaboration, community partnerships and partnerships created to provide or improve services which strengthen and enhance the region. 

Council’s Environment and Sustainability Unit was recognised for its outstanding achievement for the Get Septic Smart program, which was highly commended in the category of Excellence in Environmental Leadership & Sustainability.

This is the third award for the program, after taking out 'Winner Division B' and secondly 'Overall Category Winner' for the Communication, Education and Empowerment award in the NSW LG NSW, Excellence in the Environment Awards held last year.

Griffith City Council’s general manager Brett Stonestreet said he was pleased with the result. 

“Council has been working hard to provide the community with services it needs to grow and prosper,” Mr Stonestreet said. 

“Being recognised by the NSW Local Government Professionals Australia NSW last night proves we are getting it right. Get Septic Smart has benefited many community members and there is a possibility of sharing this resource with other Local Government Areas, creating partnerships with other councils.” 

“The Griffith Community Private Hospital project is extremely unique and Council has not only pioneered this initiative, but by partnering with higher education organisations, Murrumbidgee Local Health District, federal and state Government along with St Vincent’s & Mater Health Services creates fantastic opportunities for local business, employment, the local economy and significantly benefits the community by creating better health outcomes,” Mr Stonestreet added.

Griffith mayor Councillor John Dal Broi congratulated all those involved with Get Septic Smart and the Griffith Community Private Hospital projects. 

“Council continues to create innovative projects which improve outcomes for the community and being recognised at the prestigious awards is a great honour,” Councillor Dal Broi said.

“We have a number of projects in the pipeline which will further enhance community well-being and I look forward to seeing the impact these initiatives will have on our community.”