Torres Strait and Cassowary Coast locals awarded for excellence

Published 18 September 2020

Bernard Dorante of Torres Strait Islands Regional Council has received the prestigious LGIAsuper Above and Beyond Award at the 2020 LGMA Queensland Awards for Excellence last night (27 August).

LGIAsuper also announced Daniel Bradford, Program Manager at Cassowary Coast Regional Council, as the recipient of the LGIAsuper Young Manager of the Year award at the live streamed event. 

The LGMA Qld Awards for Excellence recognise the tireless work and outstanding achievements of leaders in Queensland local government. 

LGIAsuper spokesperson Andrea Peters said nominees were selected for representing innovation, drive, and professionalism in their various fields.

“The Above and Beyond Award is given to an individual who has exceeded expectations and performed an additional service to the benefit of their local council, while the Young Manager of the Year Award for Leadership and Management Excellence recognises leadership and management excellence by a Queensland Local Government employee,” Ms Peters said.

“Above and Beyond Award recipient, Bernard Dorante from Torres Strait Islands Regional Council, was recognised for his efforts to ensure that his community received an upgraded water main.”

In March 2020, COVID-19 impacted the project to replace the 2.8 km main water supply pipeline on Hammond Island. Project managers and the superintendent could not access the site until they had completed two weeks of quarantine. 

“For two months, Bernard worked above and beyond his duties to selflessly fulfil increased liaison, support and construction duties, working weekends and public holidays to ensure that his community had clean, stable drinking water as planned,” Ms Peters said.

Ms Peters said that she was honoured to recognise the leadership of Queenslanders in their local communities.

Young Manager of the Year award recipient, Daniel Bradford, who acts as the Program Manager at Cassowary Coast Regional Council, was awarded the prize in recognition of his ability to build teams, work through conflict and share a vision. 

“Daniel is engaged in his community and is an advocate for the impact the work of council has on young people and their participation in outdoor activities,” Ms Peters said.
“LGIAsuper has supported local communities for 55 years and know these kinds of selfless actions exemplify the resourcefulness and dedication of Queensland local government employees.”

Bernard and Daniel are two of the many inspiring and hardworking Queenslanders working in local government. On behalf of LGIAsuper, I am proud to recognise the passion and resilience of Queenslanders that are supporting their community, especially in the face of what has been a tough year for everyone,” Ms Peters said.

Bernard and Daniel join a long list of award recipients who are fashioning the future of Queensland local government. LGIAsuper is proud to stand behind these individuals and recognise their achievements. Thank you to all entrants.