Kalkie State School scooped an environmental accolade for protecting their local environment and the Great Barrier Reef. 

The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA) presented the school with $1000, as part of the annual Reef Guardian Schools Awards.

GBRMPA Reef Guardian Director Karen Vohland said the school earned the Water Warriors Award for their water conservation and water quality improvement activities.

“Our Reef Guardian School students are the future custodians of the Great Barrier Reef and these awards acknowledge their efforts caring for their local environment and promoting real change in their communities,” she said. 

“It’s about empowering students and giving them a sense of involvement in the bigger environmental picture, encouraging them to make a positive difference.”

Kalkie State School Principal Maureen Colman said it was a great honour to be recognised for the Water Warriors Award. 

“Our school is being water wise by reducing water use through dual flush toilets and upgrading our irrigation system for the school gardens,” Ms Colman said.

“Students have educated families on water wastage and water saving tips for example, using buckets to save washing water for vegetable gardens.”

Other Annual Awards winners include Holloways Beach Environmental Education Centre, Redlynch State College, Cleveland District State High School, Kidz at the Beach (Bowen), The Hall State School, North Rockhampton State High School, Hervey Bay State High School, Beaconsfield State School and Belgian Gardens State School.

More than 285 schools and over 113,000 students take part in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority’s Reef Guardian Schools program across Queensland.

Each school undertakes a variety of activities aimed at improving the Reef’s health and resilience.