Wentworth Visitor Centre Crowned State’s Best in Prestigious Infrastructure Awards!

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Wentworth Visitor Centre Crowned State’s Best in Prestigious Infrastructure Awards!

Wentworth Shire Council is thrilled to announce that the Wentworth Visitor Centre has won a prestigious state award.

Last night, at a gala ceremony in Sydney, the community’s landmark facility won the Asset and Infrastructure – Over $1.5 million – Under 50K Population category at the 2025 Local Government Professionals Australia, NSW Awards for Excellence.

This incredible achievement celebrates the transformation of the former Wentworth Services Club into the vibrant community hub it is today—a journey that began with the community, through a petition signed by over 500 residents back in 2016.

Mayor Daniel Linklater, who accepted the award alongside General Manager Ken Ross, said the win belongs to the entire community.

“This award is a phenomenal honour that we share with every resident. It validates the vision our community showed when they first petitioned for this project,” Mayor Linklater said. “To have the hard work, planning, and passion that went into this facility recognised as the best in its class across the state is a truly outstanding achievement for our Shire.”

General Manager Ken Ross acknowledged the collaborative effort behind the $14.25 million project.

“This award is wonderful recognition for a complex and ambitious project that was many years in the making. To see the final result celebrated on a state stage is incredibly rewarding,” Mr Ross said. “This is a testament to the dedication of our funding partners in the State and Federal Governments, and the exceptional project team at GSD Architects, CPM Building Contractors, and Brandi Projects, whose collective expertise was crucial to our success.”

A Win for the Whole Community

Since opening in October 2024, the Centre has proven to be a resounding success:

  • Visitor numbers skyrocketed, with a 718% increase in visitors to the Information Centre in December compared to the previous year.
  • The library is buzzing, with patronage increasing by 250% in the same period.
  • The Centre provides a one-stop-shop for residents by housing the Visitor Information Centre, Library, Council Administration Offices, and Council Chambers under one roof.
  • It has become a true community destination with features like the Junction Café, interactive historical displays, an Indigenous yarning circle, and a modern conference facility.

Council is incredibly proud of this state-level recognition and what it says about the vision and spirit of Wentworth.

Council extends a huge thank you to the Wentworth community for its unwavering support from day one. Residents and visitors who haven’t had a chance to see the facility yet are encouraged to come and experience the award-winning Wentworth Visitor Centre.

Pictured: Mayor Daniel Linklater, Demi Mcallan (from Capstone – sponsor of the award) and General Manager of Wentworth Shire Council Mr Ken Ross.