Queensland council parks shine in international awards

Published: 17th January 2023

Five proud winners - including four in Queensland - in Australia joined accredited parks and green spaces in 16 other countries around the world in the latest Green Flag Awards.

THE 2022-23 WINNERS ARE:

Kings Beach Park and Community Precinct - Sunshine Coast Regional Council 

Roma Street Parkland - City Parklands Services, Brisbane

South Bank Parklands - City Parklands Services, Brisbane

Lochiel Park - City of Campbelltown (SA)

Chinchilla Botanic Parkland - Western Downs Regional Council

First time winners Sunshine Coast Regional Council developed a new management guide for Kings Beach Park as part of their journey towards Green Flag Award accreditation – resulting in a pass on their very first attempt.

Sunshine Coast Council Divisional Councillor Terry Landsberg said, “This international accreditation recognised Kings Beach Park and Community Precinct as a premier beachside destination for community recreation, tourism, and events. Receiving this esteemed award highlights the amazing work undertaken by our dedicated team across Council.”

Brisbane enhanced it’s hard earned reputation as one of Australia’s most liveable cities with a ninth consecutive double win for the beautiful Roma Street Parkland and South Bank Parklands.

Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said, “Brisbane is renowned for its enviable outdoor lifestyle and the award-winning Roma Street Parkland and South Bank Parklands were part of the reason why.

“Both parks have participated in the Green Flag Award assessment process since 2014, receiving the award each subsequent year. It's no secret Brisbane is a city of fantastic parks, and it's great to see them recognised on the world stage.

“I am extremely proud that they have once again received this internationally-recognised accreditation.”

The Green Flag Award is a non-profit international accreditation programme that recognises and rewards well managed parks and green spaces. Originating in England in 1996, today the Green Flag Award proudly flies above more than 2,400 places in 17 countries around the world.

The programme is managed internationally by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy, alongside a network of National Operators in several countries. See the website Network page for more information.

Parks re-apply and are assessed on an annual basis by a network of national judges under a diverse range of criteria. It is not an award only for excellence (although many of the winners are!), it recognises good and well managed parks that are working towards making their parks the best they can be for the community.

Any park or green space that is free for the public to access can apply. The programme has been running in Australia since 2013 and is managed by UK Environmental Charity Keep Britain Tidy working in partnership with judges in Australia.

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