Awards

Council has endeavoured to create a sense of pride and develop a sense of self belief by undertaking a number of innovative projects that highlight the Shire.

The town of Northam won a swag of awards in 2003 for their innovative "Mitchell on Avon" project.

Essentially, "Mitchell on Avon" transformed a neglected urban precinct into a revitalised steetscape. The town's western entry into Northam had become an eyesore, as over 52 railway houses built in the 1950’s had fallen into disrepair. Unfortunately, the problem was difficult to address as the Council did not own the land. What could be done?

The then Town of Northam decided to take on the role of the "Developer" – not an 'out of town' multinational consulting firm resulting in significant economic, aesthetic, heritage and social benefits that have directly benefited the community. Over several years, negotiations took place with the landowners and government agencies to purchase and sub-divide the land area. By March 2003, the town was finally able to proceed with refurbishment of homes.

Local contractors were invited to tender for the refurbishment and sale of the homes. Local media kept the community informed of the Project's progress. Existing tenants were given the first right of refusal to purchase the newly renovated homes. The Project embraced cooperation between the Town, community and private sector that contributed to substantial economic activity within the Town.

By June 2003, the 33 houses (13 of the original 52 had to be demolished, such was the state of disrepair) had been landscaped and refurbished. By 31 July, astoundingly, 31 had already been sold. While not the primary objective of this Project, almost $1 million profit has been generated, which will now be used for further community development.

As at 31 January 2004, all of the Stage One houses were sold - that’s an impressive 35 houses. Council is now taking registration of interest for Stage Two of the project through Northam Realty. Should you like to receive a copy of the Business Plan for Stage Two, please click here: Information Package or contact the Town of Northam for a copy to be posted.

All in all, Mitchell on Avon represents a job well done that has now been recognised nationally for land use planning and innovation.

Please click on the following links to view the "Mitchell on Avon" award winning project:
National Local Government Awards – Mitchell on Avon or Premier’s Awards – Mitchell on Avon.
A PDF of a Powerpoint presentation of the Project can also be viewed by clicking here (this 2MB PDF file may take a few minutes to open).

Awards won in the last 18 months include the following:-

• 2004 National Local Government Award for Local Greenhouse Action
• 2004 SGIO Environmental Awards
  – Special Commendation for Eco Retro House Project
• 2003 National Local Government 2003 National Local Government Award for Land Use Planning Premiers Award – Overall Winner for Innovation
• 2003 WA Tourism Council finalist for Significant Festivals and Events
• 2003 Planning Institute Excellence Awards (WA) Category Winner for Land Use Planning (Rural)
• 2003 WALGA Best Practice Award for Innovation
• 2003 National Local Government Awards Finalist for Health Services

The above awards are a significant achievement for the Town and would arguably make the Town the most awarded Local Government in the last 12 months for Western Australia and possibly Australia. Northam is now seen as an industry leader, with many councils visiting the Town to view its projects and follow the Town’s lead in best practice and innovation.