MEDIA RELEASE
NOVEMBER 4, 2015
SOUTH AUSTRALIAN WINS
HIGHEST HONOUR AT NATIONAL AWARDS
South Australian Andrew Smith has been awarded the Frank Stewart Distinguished Service Award at the Park
and Leisure Australia National Awards of Excellence Gala Dinner in Sydney. Named after a former Federal
Minister for Tourism and Recreation, the Frank Stewart Award is the most prestigious individual award bestowed
by Parks and Leisure Australia.
Andrew has been a member of Parks and Leisure Australia (PLA) since its creation and his long standing
contributions to PLA regionally and nationally have assisted the organisation to cement its position as the leading
industry body for the parks and leisure sector. Andrew is held in high regard by his industry peers for his
outstanding leadership and professionalism as well as the diligent and practical way in which he executes his
duties as National Board Member and Regional Councillor. Andrew is very giving of his time and has readily
shared his knowledge at industry seminars, via the industry journal and as an industry mentor supporting other
professionals in the sector.
Andrew holds the position of Work Group Coordinator Open Space at Onkaparinga Council leading large teams
involved in complex projects and policy. Andrew holds a Degree in Recreation Planning and Management and
over the years has contributed to many other organisations, advisory groups and educational institutions working
within the parks and leisure sector.
Andrew received his award at the National Awards of Excellence Gala Dinner at Cockle Bay Wharf in
Sydney last week. The Gala Dinner is held at the same time as the national conference, which is
scheduled to take place in Adelaide in October 2016.
Parks and Leisure Australia is the peak industry association for professionals working in urban and regional
parks, recreation, sport, and active and healthy communities. An increasing focus on people’s leisure time has
resulted in the parks and leisure sector becoming one of the fastest growing industries in the world. Parks and
Leisure Australia works to positively influence the planning, provision and management of parks and leisure
experiences for all Australians.
Parks and Leisure Australia CEO Mark Band said Andrew was a very deserving winner of the Frank Stewart
Award. “Andrew has demonstrated an unparalleled commitment to the sector over a long period of time. His work
at local government level to deliver projects that have resulted in improvements to open space in his community
is equally matched by his energy and enthusiasm at a regional and national level to strengthen the sector as a
whole.”
-endsFor more information or media interviews please contact:
Cathie Trezona, Executive Officer SA/NT at Parks and Leisure Australia on 0414 901 474 or
pla.sant@parksleisure.com.au