We chat briefly to Kate Jessep and Victoria McKirdy about their joint facility (The Fleurieu Regional Aquatic Centre) and their win in the 2016 awards - at both a State and National level. 

You were successful in winning the award for Community Partnerships and Collaboration at both the State LG Professionals, SA and National LG Professionals Australia Awards with the FRAC project (Fleurieu Regional Aquatic Centre). What was unique about the approach that led to winning the award at both State and National levels?

Furthermore, this required strong community collaboration to demonstrate support for the project and more than 30 concurrent decisions of both councils which demonstrates the complexity of the venture.

While many councils collaborate to deliver services we think two Councils agreeing to partner to build and jointly own infrastructure is fairly rare.

If you were doing the project again would you do anything different?  Why or why not?

No. We are very proud to share the governance framework for this successful project with other Councils.

It is currently under construction on time, on budget and will deliver an excellent, above standard, $21 million community facility for a maximum capital outlay of $6.5 million for each Council.

What do you think are the benefits to staff, Council and the public of winning an award of this type?

This reinforces the community's confidence in their Council's ability to deliver an ‘Award winning’ community facility.

It promotes the Council's brand at State and National level and assists us to attract and retain excellent staff.


Would you recommend other councils nominate for the LG Professionals, SA awards program? Why?

Yes, for the above benefits. Furthermore, we would suggest that when you have the opportunity and good fortune to achieve a great outcome for your community the Award nominations are a great way to share your learning’s and contribute to the wider sector and community.

Kate Jessep, Director, Corporate and Community Services, City of Victor Harbor
Victoria MacKirdy, Acting CEO, Alexandrina Council