Albany Shire ranger wins 'Ranger of Year' Award

Albany Shire Council's senior ranger, Mr Gary Turner, has won the Keep Australia Beautiful Council's 1992 "Ranger of the Year" award.

Local Government Minister David Smith presented the award to Mr Turner at a Municipal Law Enforcement Officers' Association (MLEOA) function last night.

Mr Smith said the aim of the award was to recognise the valuable work of rangers in the community.

It was particularly appropriate that the award's presentation coincided with a two day conference being conducted by the MLEOA to enhance the skills of rangers.

"The fact that rangers have to deal face-to-face with people in often difficult situations calls for special skills," Mr Smith said.

"It is on these skills that nominees for the award are judged.  They include public relations ability, the art of negotiation, effective listening, an ability to resolve conflicts, and extensive knowledge of council procedures and by-laws.

"In sponsoring this award the Keep Australia Beautiful Council recognises the importance of rangers, particularly in the area of litter control and enforcement."

Mr Smith also presented medals for long service to Mr Tom Joyce of the Melville City Council (20 years), Mr Maurice McCarron of the Broome Shire Council and Mr Max Proposch of the Geraldton City Council (both 10 years).

Mr John Herington of the Mundaring Shire Council was made a Life Member of the MLEOA for his services to the association.