Simon Thorn, Executive Manager of Council’s Coffs Harbour Water business unit, has been named as the Australian Water Association’s NSW Water Professional of the Year.

“Having someone as experienced and respected as Simon in Coffs Harbour City Council is a privilege and the community has directly benefited from the innovations he’s been a vital part of establishing. It’s great to see that recognised by his peers in the industry,” said Coffs Harbour Mayor, Councillor Denise Knight.

Council’s General Manager Steve McGrath said the award was a fantastic tribute to Simon’s contributions and dedication. “There’s no doubt that Coffs Harbour is a better place as a result of Simon’s contributions and the water supply infrastructure we have is the envy of regional cities across Australia.”

Simon has been with Council for 23 years and is due to retire later this year. Prior to working for Coffs Harbour Water, he worked in the water industry in South Africa and Zimbabwe.

“I’m personally very glad that Simon has received this award. During his career, he has been right at the forefront of the water and sewerage infrastructure advances for which Coffs Harbour is applauded by the industry and local government,” said Ben Lawson, Council’s Director of City Services. “He has initiated, led or supported some of the most significant projects Coffs Harbour City Council has been involved with – such as the Regional Water Supply Scheme, including construction of Shannon Creek Dam, the raising of Karangi Dam, the augmentation of Woolgoolga Water Reclamation Plant, the design, approval and construction of the Deep Sea Release and the approval and construction of Karangi Water Treatment and Coffs Harbour Water Reclamation Plants.

“Simon is very well-respected throughout the Water Industry and has been a member of a number of key industry bodies including being a Founding Member of the NSW Water Directorate, as well as an ongoing contributor to the NSW Water Directorate, Australian Water Association and the Institute of Public Works Engineers Australia.

“Perhaps more importantly, he is also a highly popular colleague, mentor and manager and, when he takes his well-deserved retirement, he’s going to be very sadly missed at Coffs Harbour City Council.”

Simon himself says he was honoured to receive the accolade. “But I feel it’s an award to Council as a whole and the staff. Without good staff, you can’t achieve anything,” he said.

As a result of winning the NSW Water Professional of the Year award, Simon will be put forward for the AWA’s national prize.