Warrumbungle Shire Council’s Working Together for Healthy Warrumbungles project has been named the winner of the Partnerships and Collaboration category (Population under 100,000) at the 2026 NSW Local Government Excellence Awards.
The award acknowledges the success of the Healthy Warrumbungles initiative, which has brought together government agencies, health services and local communities to improve health and wellbeing outcomes across the Warrumbungle region.
The project developed through a strong partnership between the Council, Western NSW Local Health District, Western NSW Primary Health Network, NSW Ambulance and the Rural Doctors Network. The organisations worked with communities across the Shire to identify local priorities, develop a Health and Wellbeing Masterplan and commence implementation of actions aimed at improving access to services and supporting long-term community wellbeing.
“This recognition highlights what can be achieved when organisations work together with a shared commitment to improving outcomes for our communities,” said Warrumbungle Shire Mayor, Kathryn Rindfleish.
Mayor Rindfleish said the award reflects the dedication of many individuals and organisations who have contributed to the project’s success.
“Council would particularly like to acknowledge and thank Kelly Murnane, Youth Coordinator and Healthy Warrumbungles Project Coordinator, and Ngaire Stevens, Manager Children’s and Community Services, for their leadership, commitment and efforts in promoting this initiative across the Shire,” she said.
“We would also like to acknowledge our project partners, Western NSW Local Health District, Western NSW Primary Health Network, NSW Ambulance and the Rural Doctors Network, as well as the many community members who contributed their time, ideas and feedback throughout the development of the project.”
The Mayor said being recognised at a state level highlights the strength of collaboration across the Warrumbungle region.
“This award belongs to everyone who has worked together to improve the health and wellbeing of our communities. It demonstrates the positive outcomes that can be achieved when local communities, health services and government agencies work together towards a shared goal,” she said.
The Council was also recognised as a finalist in the Innovative Leadership category for its Butt Out of Our Towns initiative.
The awards, hosted by LG Professionals NSW, recognise the outstanding achievements, innovation and excellence across local government in NSW.
