MORNINGTON Peninsula Shire Council has picked up two category wins and two finalist placings at the 2026 LGPro Awards for Excellence, presented on 17 June before an audience of almost 500 local government professionals from across Victoria.
The Awards for Excellence are run by Local Government Professionals Victoria and recognise outstanding work by individuals and teams across the sector. Fifteen winners and 13 high commendations were announced at the ceremony.
The shire won the First Nations Community Partnership category for the Ngawak Biik – Briars Junior Ranger project, a culturally led program connecting First Nations young people to Country. The initiative was delivered with support from the broader Briars and Destinations teams.
A second win came in the Diversity and Inclusion category for the All Abilities Boating – Hastings pontoon hoist project, which improved accessibility to boating on the peninsula. The project worked in partnership with Better Boating Victoria, Hastings Yacht Club, Wallara and Westernport Marina.
The shire was also named a finalist in the Best Practice and Innovation in Council Plan Development category for its Council Strategic Planning Project 2025–29, a whole-of-organisation effort with input from teams across the shire.
A second finalist placing went to Radio Western Port, recognised in the Community Partnerships category. The internet-based station, established with shire funding, broadcasts programs recorded by local students and residents.
“The LGPro Awards recognise best practice across the local government sector, highlighting initiatives that deliver meaningful outcomes through innovation, collaboration and leadership,” said mayor Cr Stephen Batty.
“These achievements reflect the passion, collaboration and expertise across Mornington Peninsula Shire Council,” said Batty.
First published in the Mornington News – 30 June 2026
