Last week I attended the annual Local Government NSW Conference, where Port Macquarie-Hastings Council was recognised as the most progressive in NSW by winning the A R Bluett Memorial Award for 2017.

The award was established in 1945, to recognise the most progressive councils in the state, and looks at all aspects of council's operation.

Council first won this award in 1992, and while we are very proud to be recognised once again, the real winner is our community which benefits from the hard work and commitment of elected councillors and our  passionate staff.

The award is a testament to how far council, and the wider community, have come since administration.

We look forward to continuing with our commitment to create a vibrant community for all now, and in the future.

For information on the award visit pmhc.nsw.gov.au/ARBluett

Little Blue Dinosaur keeping kids safe

The school holidays are upon us and our popular reserves, beaches and shopping centres will be hives of activity as locals and visitors get out and about.

To help keep our kids safe this summer, council has once again partnered with child pedestrian and road safety foundation Little Blue Dinosaur.

Two hundred colourful Holiday Time: Slow Down Kids Around and Hold my Hand road safety signs have been installed along coastal roads from Town Beach to North Haven.

The Little Blue Dinosaur Foundation teaches children about the ever-present danger around roads, and uses signs to better inform drivers and pedestrians.

I urge everyone to drive safely over the busy holiday period.

Keep an eye out and please be extra vigilant around our beaches and popular community spaces where kids are out having fun.

For information on the Little Blue Dinosaur initiative visit pmhc.nsw.gov.au/littlebluedinosaur.