The Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) tonight congratulated the Ipswich Mayor, Paul Pisasale, for being honoured as Queensland’s Local Hero in the lead-up to the 2010 Australian of the Year Awards.

DIAC is once again proud to sponsor Australia’s Local Hero Award and to celebrate the extraordinary work of ordinary Australians who make their local community a better place. Next year is the 50th anniversary of the Australian of the Year Awards.

Mayor Pisasale, from Ipswich, received the award for his dedication to improving the community’s economic, social and environmental qualities.

“Mr Pisasale is an outstanding citizen who inspires us with the passion he has for this country and its people,” a DIAC spokeswoman said.

“He also established the Ipswich and Moreton Regional Development Corporation, which has contributed towards the region’s economic growth, and was instrumental in the formation of the Young Unemployed People of Ipswich group, which helps young people to develop skills and gain employment.”

Mayor Pisasale is also committed to protecting the region’s environment and created the Ipswich Nature Centre where visitors can see rare and protected species of native fauna.