Landcare volunteers, a sustainable school, and a charity funded exclusively through recycling initiatives have been recognised for their major contributions to a greener city at the 2021 Ipswich Enviro Awards.
Councillor Russell Milligan, Chair of the Environment and Sustainability Committee, announced the winners at the Flinders-Goolman Conservation Estate on 28 August, handing over bespoke trophies by Ipswich Artist Donna Davis and a copy of the Natural Places of Ipswich coffee table book to each.
Mayor Teresa Harding said it was fantastic to shine the spotlight on the Ipswich’s dedicated environmental volunteers.
“There are so many different ways Ipswich residents are taking action to protect our native habitats and keeping Ipswich liveable,” Mayor Harding said.
“Thank you to every one of the 2021 Ipswich Enviro Awards nominees for your commitment to our city’s environment and future,” Mayor Harding said.
Environment and Sustainability Committee Chairperson Councillor Russell Milligan said the Ipswich Enviro Awards were the perfect culmination to celebrations for 25 years of Ipswich Enviroplan.
“Through the ratepayer-supported Ipswich Enviroplan, council and the community have taken positive action on a number of environmental fronts,” Cr Milligan said.
“We have 25 years of success to celebrate, but with community champions such as these Ipswich Enviro Awards winners and finalists, we can also count on a bright future.”
Enviro Organisation winner: West Moreton Landcare Group Inc
West Moreton Landcare Group undertake an incredible volume of work improving large areas of the Ipswich’s natural environment. In 2021 their work has included removing invasive weeds, planting and maintaining habitat areas, and educating members, landholders and the community about environment and sustainability issues.
Environmental Hero winner: Arnold and Joyce Rieck
Arnold and Joyce Rieck have dedicated 20 years of continual hard work to the Mason’s Gully project alone. Many specimens of rare Rosewood Scrub species have been established through their activities. Together they have made a significant impact not only on the Rosewood area but also inspired many others in the community to improve the natural environment.
Sustainable Leadership winner: Goodna State School
Goodna State School has adopted a holistic view of sustainability to reduce the school and community’s environmental footprint. Initiatives go above and beyond, spanning from solar panels to Containers for Change collections. Students are the driving force and manage all recycling programs, develop initiatives such as book and clothes sales and gardens, and conduct audits to implement various improvements.
Young Enviro Champion winner: Darcy Witherspoon
Darcy Witherspoon is the founder of the Down to Earth charity. It addresses both sustainability and supporting the homeless and those in need. The charity is funded entirely through 10c refunds on recycled cans and bottles. It is built around recycling, using donations of clothing and blankets, and has also prevented tonnes of imperfect and end-of-shelf-life groceries going to landfill.
