City of Port Adelaide Enfield wins Excellence in Community Partnerships and Collaboration Award.

On Adelaide’s Lefevre Peninsula, a once-simple vision has transformed into something extraordinary: a vibrant community hub where locals come together to connect, learn, and thrive.

The Lefevre Community Precinct, delivered by the City of Port Adelaide Enfield in partnership with Preventive Health SA, is more than just a space - it’s become a second home for many, a place where confidence grows, friendships form, and wellbeing flourishes.

Now recognised with the Excellence in Community Partnerships and Collaboration Award at the 2025 LG Professionals SA Leadership Excellence Awards, the precinct is proving what’s possible when councils, partners, and communities come together with a shared purpose.

Built by the community, for the community

The Lefevre Community Precinct began with a simple but powerful question: what does the community need most?

The answer, uncovered through a major engagement process, was clear. Residents wanted an affordable, family-friendly hub where people of all ages could feel welcome, safe, and supported. They wanted a place that reflected the character of the peninsula itself - diverse, resilient, and connected.

What followed was a co-designed concept plan, guided by four key themes: Connect, Eat Well, Be Active, and Learn and Share. Within 12 months, 25 programs had been delivered in partnership with over 55 organisations, reaching more than 3,000 people. From community lunches and food education workshops, to bike riding lessons, youth nights to wellbeing workshops, the precinct has quickly established itself as a cornerstone of local life.

“It’s about making sure opportunities are accessible for everyone,” explains project lead Paul Zimny, Active Living Leader. “The precinct has grown into a welcoming, family-friendly environment where people don’t just attend programs - they feel like they belong.”

Confidence, joy, and lasting memories

Behind the numbers are stories that capture the heart of the project.

Like the young boy who learned to ride a bike for the very first time at a “come and try” activity, while his grateful parent looked on. Or the teenager who walked into a youth night not knowing anyone, and left with two new friends from different schools.

“These are the moments that make all the planning worthwhile,” Paul says. “They show the real impact - confidence built, friendships formed, joy shared.”

The precinct is also strengthening partnerships across the peninsula, connecting local sporting clubs, community groups, volunteers, and council staff in new and meaningful ways. Together, they’re creating opportunities that would not have been possible in isolation.

A community effort, led with heart

Every great project has champions, and for the Lefevre Community Precinct, Peter “Toddy” Todd has been one of the brightest. Known for his drive, passion, and ability to connect with people of all ages - whether forging partnerships or leading a singalong at Play Group - Toddy’s leadership has been instrumental in bringing the vision to life.

But as Paul is quick to point out, the precinct’s success is also thanks to the collective energy of many. “It’s been a true team effort,” he says. “Council staff, volunteers, local groups, residents - everyone has played a role in shaping this space.”

A win for the whole community

For the City of Port Adelaide Enfield, winning the Excellence in Community Partnerships and Collaboration Award is more than just recognition of a successful project - it’s a celebration of the community itself.

“This award validates the passion and teamwork that’s gone into creating the precinct,” Paul reflects. “But more than that, it highlights the power of working together. It shows what’s possible when we collaborate with our community and really listen to their needs.”

And while the plaque may sit in council offices, the true winners are the people of Lefevre Peninsula. With each new program, connection, and experience, the precinct is making everyday life richer, healthier, and more inclusive.

What’s next?

The Lefevre Community Precinct is only just getting started. With new programs and events on the horizon, its future is as dynamic as the community it serves.

“Our focus is on continuing to grow and evolve,” Paul says. “We want to keep creating opportunities where everyone on the peninsula feels welcome, inspired, and part of something bigger.”

For other councils considering an awards nomination, Paul has simple advice: “Share your story. Celebrate the impact you’re making. You might just inspire others to take their own step toward meaningful change.”

And for Lefevre Peninsula residents? The precinct doors are always open - ready to welcome the next chapter of connection, learning, and community life.

Thank you to our partner Department of Human Services for sponsoring the Excellence in Community Partnerships and Collaboration Award.

GIF: Features a variety of images from the Lefevre Community Precinct and its visitors and events, and the team behind the project.