PORT Fairy representatives will head overseas next Tuesday to champion the town’s bid to be named the world’s most liveable small community.
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Moyne Shire mayor Jim Doukas, chief executive officer David Madden and community representative Margaret Watt will fly to Al Ain in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to spruik Port Fairy’s many attributes in the International Awards for Liveable Communities (LivCom Awards).
Mr Madden said the awards offered Port Fairy an opportunity to showcase itself to the world and to also celebrate its vibrant community.
“Port Fairy prospers on tourism and visitors,” Mr Madden said.
“This is a way of keeping the brand of Port Fairy strong.”
Port Fairy is up against 11 other communities for the title of most liveable town with a population under 20,000 people.
Winning the nomination would be an honour, Mr Madden said.
“We are the only Australian finalist in the awards,” he said.
“Melbourne can say it is one of the most liveable big cities in the world and if Port Fairy is lucky enough to win the awards, it can say it is one of the most liveable small towns in the world.”
The awards are judged on community connection and involvement; healthy lifestyle; environment; arts, culture and heritage; planning; and landscape.
Community groups contributed to the council’s application for the awards and suggested names of community members to take part in the town’s presentation to the award judges.
Ms Watt, a former co-ordinator and current committee member of Port Fairy’s Community House, was chosen.
The three representatives will give a 35-minute presentation, including a display of images of Port Fairy, to the judges.
During the week-long trip, the council will also meet the Victorian Commissioner for the Middle East and Africa to discuss exports to the region.
Moyne businesses that export to the region include Murray Goulburn, Midfield Meat and Bamstone.
ehimmelreich@standard.fairfax.com.au