The 2009 Maddocks Local Government Young Planner prize has been awarded to Yarra Ranges Council planning officer Rachel Hughes.

Hughes accepted the $5000 prize at an event for local government held at Maddocks's Melbourne office on Wednesday.

Hughes was recognised for her excellence in the areas of day-to-day planning, written work, academic contribution and people skills. Of particular note was her work in the council's Bushfire Rebuilding Team, spending time with property owners developing rebuilding plans, after the February bushfires.