Gilgandra Shire Council (GSC/Council) is celebrating a momentous achievement, bringing home not one, but two prestigious awards at the 2025 Local Government (LG) Week Awards ..

Council General Manager David Neenes says its a testament to the strength of our community spirit, innovation, and future-focused planning.

''From concept to execution, both projects reflect the bold, community-driven vision that continues to place the Gilgandra Region on the map," he said.

The Goin’ to Gil Weekend + Under the Gums Festival 2024 took out the RH Dougherty Award for Innovation in Special Events (Division A – population under 30,000), selected from seven strong applications.

The weekend drew over 3,000 attendees, with 43% coming from outside the region, and injected $900,000+ into the local economy.

Powered by more than 250 volunteer hours, the event delivered unforgettable #RealCountry moments, from iconic Coo-ee calls to headline music acts by the Castlereagh River.

Meanwhile, the council's Planning Towards 5000 Population was named the winner of the LGNSW Planning Award (Division A – population under 30,000) winner, recognised from three state-wide nominations.

The project showcases Gilgandra Region’s bold, collaborative vision for sustainable growth across housing, youth, childcare, health, and greening - building a vibrant, future ready community.

Gilgandra's Aero Park Subdivision is part of their broader housing strategy and even broader Towards 5000 Population strategy.

Council’s General Manager, David Neeves, shared his pride in the wins.

“This is an incredible recognition of the passion and commitment shown by our teams and our community.

"Goin’ to Gil captured the spirit of who we are, while our Towards 5000 strategy shows where we’re headed.

"These awards are a celebration of what’s possible when we come together with purpose and pride.

"Gilgandra might be small in size, but we’re big in vision and it’s fantastic to see that recognised on a statewide stage.”

 “Council extends its warmest congratulations to everyone involved - planning crews, staff, volunteers, partners, and community members.

"These wins belong to you.”

Local Government NSW (LGNSW) President Mayor Phyllis Miller OAM said the awards provide an opportunity for councils to showcase the inspiring work they do to support, engage and strengthen their communities.

“As the peak body for local government across the state, LGNSW is incredibly proud to celebrate the valuable work being done every day by councils,” Mayor Miller said.

“From playgrounds to community halls, youth services to yes, even roads, rates and rubbish – councils' impact on everyone, every day and it’s important we have a way to acknowledge the incredible work being done not only by our elected Councillors but also by our hard-working staff.”

Mayor Miller congratulated all the winners and nominees on their exceptional contributions.

“Local Government Week is a time to shine a spotlight on the sector.

"These awards are an opportunity to say thank you for the creativity, resourcefulness and dedication of our state’s councils,” she said.