MEDIA RELEASE NOVEMBER 4, 2015
SOUTH AUSTRALIAN WINS
HIGHEST HONOUR AT NATIONAL AWARDS
South Australian Andrew Smith has been awarded the Frank Stewart Distinguished Service Award at the Park and Leisure Australia National Awards of Excellence Gala Dinner in Sydney. Named after a former Federal Minister for Tourism and Recreation, the Frank Stewart Award is the most prestigious individual award bestowed by Parks and Leisure Australia.
Andrew has been a member of Parks and Leisure Australia (PLA) since its creation and his long standing contributions to PLA regionally and nationally have assisted the organisation to cement its position as the leading industry body for the parks and leisure sector. Andrew is held in high regard by his industry peers for his outstanding leadership and professionalism as well as the diligent and practical way in which he executes his duties as National Board Member and Regional Councillor. Andrew is very giving of his time and has readily shared his knowledge at industry seminars, via the industry journal and as an industry mentor supporting other professionals in the sector.
Andrew holds the position of Work Group Coordinator Open Space at Onkaparinga Council leading large teams involved in complex projects and policy. Andrew holds a Degree in Recreation Planning and Management and over the years has contributed to many other organisations, advisory groups and educational institutions working within the parks and leisure sector.
Andrew received his award at the National Awards of Excellence Gala Dinner at Cockle Bay Wharf in Sydneylast week. The Gala Dinner is held at the same time as the national conference, which is scheduled to take place in Adelaide in October 2016.
Parks and Leisure Australia is the peak industry association for professionals working in urban and regional parks, recreation, sport, and active and healthy communities. An increasing focus on people’s leisure time has resulted in the parks and leisure sector becoming one of the fastest growing industries in the world. Parks and Leisure Australia works to positively influence the planning, provision and management of parks and leisure experiences for all Australians.
Parks and Leisure Australia CEO Mark Band said Andrew was a very deserving winner of the Frank Stewart Award. “Andrew has demonstrated an unparalleled commitment to the sector over a long period of time. His work at local government level to deliver projects that have resulted in improvements to open space in his community is equally matched by his energy and enthusiasm at a regional and national level to strengthen the sector as a whole.”
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For more information or media interviews please contact:
Cathie Trezona, Executive Officer SA/NT at Parks and Leisure Australia on 0414 901 474 or