Parkland rakes in an international award

Chinchilla Botanic Parkland has achieved international recognition this week, being the only Regional park in Queensland to receive a coveted ‘green flag’ award.

The international green flag award recognises exceptional parks and green spaces, setting the benchmark standard for the provision, management and maintenance of recreational outdoor spaces around the world.

There are only three parks in Queensland to receive this award to-date, with Chinchilla Botanic Parkland ranking alongside Brisbane’s South Bank and Roma St Parklands.

Western Downs Regional Council’s Parks and Gardens Coordinator Matthew Robertson travelled to Perth last week to receive the award at the Parks and Leisure Australia National Conference.

“This international accreditation process involves a rigorous examination of the area including a site visit, staff interviews and reviewing the management and maintenance plans for the Chinchilla Botanic Parkland,” he said.

“At the end, the area is given a score out of 100, and we passed with flying colours.

“The judges said that they were most impressed with what they saw during the visit, in providing such a wonderful park for the Chinchilla community.”

Council’s Spokesperson for Parks, Gardens and Cemeteries, Councillor Carolyn Tillman is thrilled that the Chinchilla Botanic Parkland has received such a prestigious award.

“This award is evidence of a great achievement in a regional community and shows that we can produce an outdoor space that is aligned with world class standards,” she said.

“The whole region can be proud of this honour, and I look forward to many wonderful community events being held in this venue.

“The award status will also encourage more visitors to make a special trip to Chinchilla to enjoy the various uniquely-themed sections including the megafauna discovery centre, the state-of-the-art water play area, the parkour equipment and the outdoor amphitheatre.”

The judges attend a special training course through Parks and Leisure Australia, to be able to assess according to the Green Flag criteria. The green flag award is quickly gaining momentum in Australia, with this year’s winners including the City of Sydney, Parramatta Park, City of Greater Bendigo and the Centennial Parklands.

The awards were presented at the Parks and Leisure Australia’s Awards of Excellence Gala dinner, with over 500 guests in attendance.

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