THE staff and volunteers of Sutherland Shire Council Animal Shelter are celebrating after it won a top award.
The animal shelter, at Taren Point, won the Local Government Managers Australia NSW Management Excellence Award in the Partnerships for Growth category.
The award recognises cross-council collaboration.
The shelter is operated by the council in partnership with Sydney City Council.
Since the partnership started, the shelter has decreased destruction of animals to 4 per cent; the lowest rate among NSW councils operating a shelter.
Last year 960 cats and dogs were re-housed while there were conversations with 1828 Facebook followers and more than 10,000 people were reached through digital media.
The animals are cared for by a dedicated team of more than 55 community volunteers.
Since forming the partnership the two councils have increased knowledge and expertise, which has resulted in significant financial savings and improved practices.
Other councils are now looking to the shelter as an industry leader for benchmarking and advice on companion animal management matters. Campbelltown, Burwood and Blacktown council staff have toured the shelter and discussed challenges they have in relation to animal management.
The Emerging Leader Award was won by Sutherland Shire Council staff member Melissa Daley, of the land and information unit, in recognition of her work supporting and developing corporate opportunities within the council.
Have you visited the animal shelter?
