The $1.5 million project won the Excellence in Infrastructure Delivery Award for projects under $2 million at the 25th Annual Local Government Professionals Australia, SA Leadership Excellence Awards Gala Dinner on Friday night.
The award recognises outstanding achievement in the successful delivery of infrastructure projects that provide meaningful and lasting benefits to local communities.
Completed in October 2024, the Port Broughton Civic Square Redevelopment transformed a prominent site in the centre of town into a modern, family-friendly community hub supporting tourism, recreation, remembrance and community connection.
The project includes a splashpad waterplay area with water jets and lighting, upgraded War Memorial precinct, improved seating, three flag poles, a semi-circular commemorative wall, native landscaping, public seating and cultural elements including Narungga artwork and language.
Barunga West Council Mayor Leonie Kerley said the award was significant recognition for the Port Broughton community and the wider Barunga West region at the Top of the Yorke.
“This is a proud moment for our Council and our community,” Mayor Kerley said.
“The Port Broughton Civic Square Redevelopment has created a public space that is being used and valued by residents, families and visitors.
“It has become an important focal point for Port Broughton, supporting major community events, tourism, ANZAC Day commemorations, markets and everyday use.
“This award recognises the work that went into delivering a project that respects our history, celebrates local identity and provides a lasting community asset for future generations.”
Originally scoped as a $3.1 million design-and-construct project, Council staff project-managed and redesigned the works in-house, reducing costs to less than half while securing significant external funding.
More than 60 per cent of the final budget was sourced through state and federal grants, including the Open Space Grant Program, which reduced the financial impact on ratepayers.
Council CEO Mark McDonald said the award highlighted what small regional councils could achieve through careful planning, strong project management and a clear focus on community outcomes.
“This project is a strong example of a regional council delivering high-quality infrastructure in a financially responsible way,” Mr McDonald said.
“Council was able to bring the project cost down significantly, secure substantial grant funding and still deliver a public space that has changed the way people use the Port Broughton foreshore precinct.
“It is particularly pleasing to see the work of Council staff and contractors recognised at a state level. The Civic Square is now a central gathering place for the community and an asset that will continue to support local events, tourism and economic activity for many years.”
The Port Broughton Civic Square Redevelopment was selected ahead of other finalists from the City of Adelaide, District Council of Yankalilla and Whyalla City Council.