As reported previously by Western Plains App, the innovative "Rise and shine it's Time to Dine" meal voucher program that operates in Warrumbungle Shire was nominated for a NSW Local Government Excellence Award.

As If the excitement of nomination wasn’t enough, the dedicated group came through with a win in their category, delighting the whole community.

“The winners were announced at an awards night in Sydney on 1st June and volunteer team were elated with their success.” Warrumbungle Shire Council Mayor, Ambrose Doolan said.

The meal voucher program is mutually beneficial to the community with Warrumbungle Community Care partnering with almost 40 food vendors in the local government area to supply eligible clients with vouchers to access meals at a discounted rate, supporting local businesses as part of the process.

 Fiona Cormie, a full time employee at the Mint Leaf Café in Coonabarabran said the initiative has had lots of positives.

"We probably get ten to fifteen people every week using the vouchers," she said. "While most only get coffee it's been great for local businesses."

Ms Cormie said the social aspect was also important.

"It's great to see people out and about and socialising with a smile on their faces," she said.

The voucher system, provided by Warrumbungle Community Care won in the category Community Development – Population under 150,000. The Community Development award recognises leadership in community services including a particular project initiative, innovation in management and leadership practices or demonstrated practicality and resourcefulness. This isn't the first win for the group.

“Warrumbungle Community Care is leading the way in community initiatives with their meal voucher program also winning the NSW Meals on Wheels ‘Innovation Award’ in 2022 and shortlisted for the prestigious Alison Meighan Award with an Honorary Finalist Service Excellence Award in 2022,” Mr Doolan said.

“Warrumbungle Community Care provide a diverse range of services to our local community members from community transport, social support and home maintenance to meals, respite for carers and home care packages,” said Cr Doolan. “This wonderful service has been making continual improvements to the services and initiatives they deliver and anticipate the meal voucher program to keep growing into the future, allowing them to further assist our community."