Media notes - Meritorious

PUBLIC SERVICE MEDAL (PSM)
Mrs Rosemary Anne HAILSTONE, 9 Barker Circuit, Kelso NSW 2795
For outstanding public service with the Department of Family and Community
Services in New South Wales.
Over the past 29 years, Mrs Hailstone has served with distinction in the NSW Department of
Family and Community Services, starting in frontline child protection services before
progressing into the management of child protection teams and local offices. After working in
numerous roles in Sydney, Mrs Hailstone relocated to Bathurst, initially in the position of
Manager, Casework and then as Manager Client Services. Between 2008 and 2011,
Mrs Hailstone took on a temporary acting role as Director Child and Family, Central West,
and in this role provided leadership, strengthened relationships with stakeholders, and
planned for the establishment of the first Department of Family and Community Services
office in Dubbo. In early 2012, the Department of Family and Community Services
commenced the pilot of a new model of child protection service called Practice First. The
decision to pilot the program in Bathurst and Mudgee was largely due to Mrs Hailstone's
outstanding leadership and reputation as a skilful manager. Within months, it was evident that
the model was having a positive impact on the work culture and skills of staff in Bathurst and
Mudgee. Early indicators show a notable reduction in the number of children entering the
care system, a significant reduction in staff absences through sick leave, and improved
relationships with families and the Services' community partners. The success of the trial
under Mrs Hailstone's leadership has led to Practice First being implemented in other areas
of NSW. Mrs Hailstone has provided invaluable support and inspiration to her colleagues and
is greatly respected for her authority, knowledge and vision. Her commitment is unwavering
and there is no doubt that the critical factor to success of the model's implementation was her
outstanding leadership, sound managerial skills, and calm and measured guidance.
Mr Ted HOARE, Coogee NSW 2034
For outstanding public service as Senior Arborist, Centennial Parklands, Sydney.
As Senior Arborist, Centennial Parklands, Mr Hoare has designed and implemented many
initiatives to engage and educate the community and to manage and renew the ageing tree
population within the Parklands. One of Mr Hoare's most valuable contributions has been
through the development of the Streets Ahead Tree database. This computer management
system captures specific information about the trees including their location, height, age, life
expectancy and heritage features. The database has enabled the Centennial Parklands to
value their tree population and it is used to manage the ongoing maintenance of the trees.
The database has been described as one of the best in the world and is an extremely
important tool in the management and planning of the Parklands tree program. Mr Hoare's
Tree Tours occur four times a year. During this interactive guided walk Mr Hoare explains the
origins of the trees, the features of the plantings and outlines future planning directions for the
Parklands. Mr Hoare has also made a significant contribution through his support of the
Centennial Parklands Foundation which raises funds for heritage, environmental and
educational programs. His involvement includes recruiting community members and
corporate sponsors to donate to the Parklands' trees, taking potential donors on tours, and
being a guest speaker at key fundraising events. Mr Hoare has also provided more than
28 years’ practical training to students from TAFE NSW. Mr Hoare's dedication and
commitment have been exemplary.
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