Chinchilla Botanic Parkland secures fourth international award
Published on 12 January 2023
The Chinchilla Botanic Parkland has once again demonstrated its world-class status after receiving the prestigious Green Flag Award for the fourth consecutive year.
The Green Flag Award scheme recognises excellence in the management of parks and green spaces around the world and sets the benchmark standard for the management of recreational outdoor spaces.
Councillor Carolyn Tillman, Council Spokesperson for Recreational Spaces and Cemeteries said this is an outstanding achievement for the region and highlights the work that has gone into the space over the years.
"The Chinchilla Botanic Parkland showcases the region’s diverse native flora and rich history, while offering a wide variety of attractions unique to the Western Downs, and to be one of only four Green Flag recipients in all of Queensland demonstrates how impressive, and valuable this space is," Cr Tillman said.
"Council is dedicated to delivering active, vibrant spaces to connect our communities and this beautiful space is definitely a point of pride in our region for locals. Importantly, it also encourages tourists and travellers to visit the Western Downs and see for themselves the recreational spaces we have to enjoy.
“The Parkland is an outdoor space of great diversity with so much on offer. With a megafauna discovery centre, state-of-the-art water play area, parkour equipment and an outdoor amphitheatre, this award is evidence of great achievement in a regional community, and shows that we can produce a landmark that is aligned with world class standards,”
Kirk Capewell, Western Downs Regional Council's Acting Parks and Recreation Manager said that the Award was a testament to the vision and hard work of Council’s Parks and Recreation team.
"Attaining a Green Flag involves a rigorous examination, including a site visit by a jury of green space experts who assess applicants against eight strict criteria, including horticultural standards, cleanliness, sustainability and community involvement," Mr Capewell said.
"To ensure that the high standards associated with holding a Green Flag are maintained, winners must re-apply each year to renew their Green Flag accreditation status.
"Being able to proudly fly the Green Flag at the main entrance to the Chinchilla Botanic Parkland for a fourth year celebrates the hard work and dedication of all the staff and volunteers who work tirelessly to maintain the grounds at such a high standard, and have done so since it opened in 2019."
For more information about the Green Flag Award, visit their website www.greenflagaward.org. To find out more about the Chinchilla Botanic Parkland, call 1300 COUNCIL (1300 268 624) or visit www.wdrc.qld.gov.au.
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