St Catherine’s School are the proud recipients of an environmental award and will be presented with a $500 grant from the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority.

The ‘Ripples of Change Award’ recognises environmental excellence and will allow St Catherine’s to continue their environmental awareness with a new project.

Ms Megan Sperring from the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority’s (GBRMPA) Reef Guardian Schools Program said the $500 grant would help fund a new garden for the school.

“Having joined the Reef Guardian Schools Program two years ago, sustainability is something St Catherine’s Catholic School takes very seriously.

“A new sustainable garden will allow the children to grow their own organic produce and give them a fantastic understanding of responsible environmental practices.”

Tina Jansen, Reef Guardian School Program Coordinator for St Catherine’s, said she was delighted to be receiving the award and eager to get the project started.

“St Catherine’s School already recycles organic waste through composting and worm farming. 

“Now we will be able to use the compost and castings created to fertilise our garden.

“The children are very excited to be able to put into practice the things they’ve been learning and take an active role in looking after our Great Barrier Reef.”

Kate Finch, Regional Liaison Officer for the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority will present the award to St Catherine’s School 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 take place on Tuesday 10 February at 8:45am at St Catherine’s School, 69 Marathon St Proserpine.