PORT Macquarie-Hastings Council has been recognised for it’s Olympic Live site established to show James Magnussen’s 100 metre swim at the London Olympics last year.
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The early morning live site was set up with a big screen at the Glasshouse forecourt to televise the “The Missile’s” 100 metre final swim.
Council’s event saw them awarded the Government Communications Australia Best Tourism and Events communication award.
At least 500 spectators packed the Hay Street location from 4am to watch and show their support of the homegrown talent at the council run event.
Council admitted the venture was “high risk” with the race being broadcast at 4.30am Eastern Standard Time in the middle of winter.
But the effort paid off as residents flocked to catch a glimpse of their Olympic hero competing on the biggest sporting stage in the world.
The man himself was visibly moved by the sentiment when a live cross showed the eager Port Macquarie supporters enduring the chilly conditions.
Council’s general manager Tony Haywood was rapt to receive the award.
“This is a great achievement for council,” he said.
“Winning this national award for a fantastic event that not only engaged the local community but also the broader community on a national and international level.”