Cumberland Council was named Local Council of the Year at the 2018 Sport NSW Awards, with Auburn Swim Club member Tim Hodge also winning Young Athlete with a Disability Award at the Champions of Sport Ceremony.
Mayor Greg Cummings said the Local Council of the Year is awarded for excellence and innovation in the promotion of sport, active recreation and healthy living.
“We have a strong sporting culture in Cumberland and our passion for sport and being active is what makes up a large part of our community spirit. This award recognises the incredible work of Council’s Recreation Team to get more people more active, more often,” Mayor Cummings said.
“Over the past 12 months, Council’s Recreation team have organised more than 60 sporting and recreation events for our community. These include school holiday programs, Quidditch workshops, activity sessions for people with disability, introduction to sports days and more.”
Auburn Swim Club member Tim Hodge was also awarded Young Athlete with a Disability Award. Tim has had many notable achievements in 2018 including four gold and one silver medal at the Para Pan Pacific Championships and two silver medals at the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games.
Tim has worked closely with his coach Clinton Camilleri at Council’s Auburn Ruth Everuss Swim Centre in Lidcombe, which is managed by Belgravia Leisure, to achieve such great results.
Mayor Cummings congratulated Tim on the prestigious award, adding that his achievements were a testament to his hard work and commitment.
“Our region consistently produces high quality athletes at a state, national, and international level which we are so proud of,” Mr Cummings said.
“It is great to see the partnership between Council and Belgravia Leisure continuing to develop great swimmers and I commend the athletes and coaching staff for their hard work.
“Council is committed to promoting programs and activities which encourage a healthy and active lifestyle for our community. We are fortunate in Cumberland to have so many sport and recreation facilities that our whole community can enjoy and with Auburn Ruth Everuss Swim Centre named after our famous local Olympian, it’s no wonder we’re seeing so many champions swimming through our pools.
“Summer is the perfect time to get active in Cumberland. I hope residents will be inspired by Tim’s achievements and take advantage of the activities our Recreation Team offers."
