Leadership Excellence Awards - Economic Development

31 Oct 2016 10:51 AM | Anonymous member (Administrator)

Norman Waterhouse Lawyers sponsor the Excellence in Local Economic Development award, so we speak to Sean Keenihan, Chairman of Partners, Norman Waterhouse Lawyers for his insights. 

Hi Sean - can you start by telling us why, as a law firm, do you sponsor an economic development award? 

We enjoy partnering with our council clients to make a real difference in local and regional economies.  We are delighted to recognize the efforts of councils that play an active role in leading and supporting economic growth.

How do you think councils can benefit from focusing on local economic development?

Developing the strength and sustainability of local economies is an essential for community prosperity.  Councils that support sustainable economic growth and transformation in local and regional economies are making a significant and tangible contribution to community prosperity.

How do you think councils can benefit from participating in the awards - especially this category?

It assists councils to focus on the link between what they are doing and the impact that has on communities.  It also encourages the sharing of lessons and experiences among councils (i.e. what can be done) to raise the bar in terms of performance.  It also supports continuing innovation as councils are encouraged to strive for excellence in economic development.

This year's winner was the Coorong District Council SA Motorsport Park Development.  Why do you think this was such a great example of Excellence in Local Economic Development?

The council played a lead facilitation role in the realisation of a project that will result in immediate and long term, sustained jobs for its community and the broader region. 

They exhibited vision and commitment while adopting a collaborative approach (with other tiers of government and the private sector) to catalyse the development of infrastructure that will be an economic pillar for its community for decades to come.

This involved calculated risk taking on the part of the council – but the rewards will be significant and long-lasting for its community and the State’s broader visitor economy for many years to come.

Mailing Address: 148 Frome Street ADELAIDE SA 5000   Phone: 08 8224 2080   Email: admin@lgprofessionalssa.org.au


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