LGNSW award win for Kurri Kurri Town Centre Upgrade

Published on 06 June 2025

Cessnock City Council has won the Asset and Infrastructure Award for the Kurri Kurri Town Centre and Col Brown Rotary Park upgrade at the Local Government Professionals Australia (NSW) Excellence Awards.

The award recognises outstanding infrastructure projects over $1.5 million within the 50,000 to 150,000 population category.

The $7 million city centre development transformed the heart of Kurri Kurri into a more accessible, pedestrian friendly and vibrant town centre that supports local businesses while enriching the experience of residents and visitors.

The project included upgrades to the commercial centre public domain, landscaping, footpaths and paving, pedestrian crossings, street furniture, lighting, line marking, street tree planting and signage.

Among the most significant enhancements was the transformation of Col Brown Rotary Park, crafted in collaboration with local historians, community groups and artists to ensure the revitalisations effort pays homage to the town’s veterans and its mining history.

Cessnock City Mayor Daniel Watton says the recognition is a proud milestone, celebrating Council’s hard work and vision in bringing this project to life. 

"This award is a testament to our dedication in delivering impactful infrastructure that meets community needs and ensures long-term benefits," said Clr Watton.

"This achievement was made possible thanks to the dedicated efforts of council teams, local business, contractors and funding support from the NSW Government’s Restart NSW Resources for Regions Fund and the Australian Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program."

In other recognition for Hunter councils, City of Newcastle took home the award for cities with population over 150k and Lake Macquarie City Council received a highly commended award in the same category.