4 February 2009

Aloomba State School has won an environmental award and a $500 grant for this year’s Tilapia Terminators Fishing Competition.

The ‘Ripples of Change Award’ recognises the outstanding efforts of Aloomba State School in combating the effects of the noxious tilapia fish. 

Ms Megan Sperring from the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority’s (GBRMPA) Reef Guardian Schools Program said the $500 grant will help fund this year’s fishing competition.

“This competition, which started in 2005, brings the community together to physically reduce the population of the tilapia pest fish.   Last year, almost 2000 fish were removed from the local waterway which means native fish now have less competition for food. 

As well as improving the health of the natural area, the community become more aware of the effects of tilapia and how to dispose of them correctly if they do catch them when out fishing.”

Principal of Aloomba State School, Ms Robyn Corbett, said she was thrilled the school’s efforts had been recognised and would put the grant money to good use for this year’s competition.

“This award means we can make this year’s competition the best one yet.

“We aim to get as many members  of our community involved  as possible and eventually see the population of tilapia in our waterways significantly diminish.”

Phil Laycock, Regional Liaison Officer for the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority will present the award to Aloomba State School at 11:30am today Wednesday 4 February, and personally thank the school for their efforts on behalf of the GBRMPA for their efforts in helping to conserve the Great Barrier Reef for future generations.

The presentation will occur at Aloomba State School at 11am on Wednesday 4 February.