Wentworth Shire Council’s transformation of the former Wentworth Services Club into a state-of-the-art visitor centre has won the Asset and Infrastructure – over $1.5 million – under 50K population category at the 2025 Local Government Professionals Australia, NSW Awards for Excellence.
The award was accepted by Mayor, Daniel Linklater and Council General Manager, Ken Ross, at the awards gala in Sydney last night.
The Wentworth Visitor Centre project was recognised for its outstanding community engagement, innovative design, and significant contribution to regional tourism and local services.
The journey began in 2016 after a community petition of over 500 signatures called on the Council to purchase and redevelop the disused building.
Mayor Linklater praised the community for being the driving force behind the project.
“This award is a phenomenal honour that we share with every resident. It validates the vision our community showed when they first petitioned for this project,” Mayor Linklater said.
“To have the hard work, planning, and passion that went into this facility recognised as the best in its class across the state is a truly outstanding achievement for our Shire.”
Mr Ross acknowledged the collaborative effort behind the $14.25 million project.
“This award is wonderful recognition for a complex and ambitious project that was many years in the making. To see the final result celebrated on a state stage is incredibly rewarding,” Mr Ross said.
“This is a testament to the dedication of our funding partners in the State and Federal Governments, and the exceptional project team at GSD Architects, CPM Building Contractors, and Brandi Projects, whose collective expertise was crucial to our success.”
Opened in October 2024, the Wentworth Visitor Centre has already produced outstanding results, with visitor numbers in December increasing by a remarkable 718% compared to the previous year. The library has seen a similar surge, with patronage up 250% in the same period.
The multi-purpose facility at 61 Darling Street now houses the Council’s Administration Offices, an expanded Visitor Information Centre, a modern Library overlooking the Darling River, Council Chambers, and a conference facility. It has become a community drawcard with features like the Junction Café, an Indigenous yarning circle, interactive historical games, and a theatrette.
