Above: Mayor of Blacktown City, Councillor Leo Kelly, OAM congratulates Melanie on her achievement.

Blacktown Leisure Centre, Stanhope and Blacktown Olympic Park's Business Development Manager, Melanie Morson was congratulated on being awarded the prestigious, Aquatics and Recreation Industry, 2007 Orimatech Industry Award for Excellence, by the Mayor of Blacktown City, Councillor Leo Kelly, OAM at last night's Council meeting, Wednesday, June 27, 2007.

Melanie was presented with the Award at the recent Aquatic and Recreation Institute Annual Awards evening on June 15, 2007. Awarded on a national basis to only one industry professional a year, the award recognises individuals for their contribution to the wider aquatics and recreation industry.

"Congratulations to Melanie on this achievement. Melanie is a key player in the day to day operations of Blacktown Leisure Centre, Stanhope and the growth of the Blacktown Olympic Park at Council", Mayor Kelly said.

"It is always pleasing to hear and see Councils staffs' hard work and commitment recognised outside of local government and in the private sector. This award is particularly significant as it is measured across all sport, recreation and leisure industry groupings nationally", Mayor Kelly continued.

Blacktown Leisure Centre, Stanhope and Blacktown Olympic Park are both key attractions in Blacktown City. The Blacktown Leisure Centre, Stanhope in particular has delivered to the City 14 industry and community awards and has welcomed more than 4 million visitors through its doors since opening in February 2003.

For further information on any of Council's facilities including Blacktown Olympic Park or Blacktown Leisure Centre, Stanhope please visit Council's website www.blacktown.nsw.gov.au