South Australia Police Superintendent Scott Denny has been named the 2023 recipient of the Jim Hullick Award for his work in strengthening partnerships between Riverland and Murraylands councils during the River Murray Flooding.
The award, which is named after former SA LGA CEO, Jim Hullick, honours state and federal public servants who have gone above and beyond to collaborate on projects with local councils, delivering great outcomes for people across SA.
Superintendent Denny, who was previously the Local Service Area Commander for the Murray Mallee in 2021, played a pivotal role in building strong relationships between emergency services, local government, community groups, and state authorities during his tenure in the region.
SA LGA CEO, Clinton Jury said Superintendent Denny’s proactive approach ensured the activation of the Zone Emergency Support Team for the recent River Murray flood event and enabled stakeholders to work together effectively.
“While in Murray Mallee, Scott went over and above the call of duty to attend forums with stakeholders on a range of community issues – including those outside of emergencies,” Mr Jury said.
“This helped build trust and respect, and he was acknowledged as a leader and mentor in the community.
“As a result of the partnerships Scott helped create, there is now more communication between stakeholders in the region on emerging issues such as family violence, misuse of alcohol and drugs, mental health and extreme weather preparedness.
“I congratulate Scott on receiving the 2023 Jim Hullick Award – he exemplifies the spirit of collaboration and has done so under some very challenging circumstances.”
Superintendent Denny thanked the SA LGA for the Award and the Murray Mallee community for nominating him.
“During my two years in the region, I was lucky enough to meet a lot of incredible people and develop some wonderful relationships with the common goal of making the community safer, more connected and a place everyone would love to live,” Supt Denny said.
“You don’t do the job for recognition, but I’m proud and honoured that the community saw fit to nominate me for this Award.
“It’s only through collaboration between local and state government, and other stakeholders, that we can continue developing our regional communities and improve the services available to residents and visitors in rural and remote parts of our state.”
About the Jim Hullick Award
The LGA presents the Jim Hullick Award annually – named in Mr Hullick’s honour – to state or federal public servants who have worked in partnership with councils to achieve positive outcomes for communities.
Mr Hullick served as LGA CEO from 1976 to 1997 and during these 21 years was responsible for several significant local government reforms.
He was instrumental in establishing the Local Government Finance Authority, the LGA Workers Compensation and Mutual Liability schemes and the first Memorandum of Understanding (which was a precursor to the State/Local Relations Agreement).
Sadly, Mr Hullick passed away in July this year aged 87.
Find out more about the Jim Hullick Award.
