Students from Reef Guardian Schools in the Whitsundays area will make their presence in the community felt tomorrow by participating in projects to improve Cannonvale Beach and Galbraith Creek as part of the 2011 Future Leaders Eco Challenge.

Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA) Regional Liaison Officer Katie Finch said the Future Leaders Eco Challenge, part of the GBRMPA's Reef Guardian Schools program, encouraged students to step up as community leaders in sustainable living and protecting our environment.

"The theme of this year's Future Leaders Eco Challenge is 'working together today, for a healthier Reef tomorrow' and is designed to promote partnerships and relationship building between schools and regional environmental groups," Ms Finch said.

"The day will see students tree planting, identifying weeds, restoring turtle nesting habitat and exploring marine biodiversity."

Whitsundays Local Marine Advisory Committee Chairman and OUCH Founder Tony Fontes said the Future Leaders Eco Challenge was a fantastic Reef Guardian initiative.

"We are pleased to support the Reef Guardian Schools program, working in conjunction with the leaders of tomorrow to promote sustainable living," Mr Fontes said.

"These projects not only assist in building healthier ecosystems but they also provide valuable learning experiences for students."

The Whitsundays Future Leaders Eco Challenge is supported by Whitsunday Regional Council, Whitsunday Catchment and Landcare, Fantasea Cruises, the Department of Environment and Resource Management and OUCH (Order of Underwater Coral Heroes).

Ends...