Parks Forum Launches Sir Edmund Hillary Parks Award

The Parks Forum has announced the creation of the Sir Edmund Hillary Parks Award - for outstanding contribution to parks.

To be presented as part of the upcoming inaugural Parks Forum Awards Program, this award recognises an individualâs outstanding contribution to the parks industry over a number of years or through action that has resulted in significant changes in attitude or management practice.

As Parks Forum Chief Executive David Clarke explains "with this name, the award recognises the role of Sir Edmund Hillary as Parks Forum's inaugural Patron, as well as his lifetime of contribution to the environment, and builds upon the (Parks Forumâs) ongoing association with the Hillary Family.

"As our inaugural Patron, Sir Edmund lent his outstanding reputation and powerful voice to our mission. His willingness to be part of our work reminds us of the importance not only of what we do, but also of the way we do it â with the character and integrity that was a hallmark of all his endeavours."

Clarke adds that a number of significant nominations have been received, with the Award winner will be announced at the 4th International Biennial Parks Leadership Conference dinner in Sydney in August.

He explained "I invite you to join us at the dinner to celebrate our Sir Edmund Hillary Parks Award winner, as well as the Excellence in Parks award winners, recognising their important contributions to parks."

Common Ground, the 4th International Biennial Parks Leadership Conference will be held from 24th to 26th August 2010 at the Crystal Palace Conference Centre at Sydney's Luna Park.

For details call 03 9416 2080, E: info@parksforum.org, www.parksforum.org

Image shows Sir Edmund Hillary with Tenzing Norgay.