24 July 2009

Burdekin Christian College has been awarded a Litter Leaders Award, proudly sponsored by NQ Dry Tropics and the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA). 

The award recognises the school's work in keeping their grounds free of litter and comes with $500 funding to implement a sustainability project in the school.

GBRMPA Reef Guardian Schools Project Officer Leonie Maddigan said the school showed a strong commitment to protecting the Great Barrier Reef.

"As a Reef Guardian School, Burdekin Christian College is doing some fantastic work to protect the catchment and the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park," she said.

"By keeping their school grounds clean, the school is helping minimise the amount of rubbish entering the Great Barrier Reef.

"They are setting a wonderful example for the rest of the community and it is hoped others follow their lead on sustainability projects."

Judy Warner, Community Engagement Manager for NQ Dry Tropics, said she was delighted the school received this award.

“Litter management in our communities is important to our coastal and marine environments. The Burdekin Christian College community is tackling this issue head on," she said.

Burdekin Christian College plans to use the $500 to construct a Resource Conservation and Waste Management Centre so their refuse, reduce, reuse and recycle pyramid of activities can occur at a common centre. 

The award will be presented on school parade on Monday the 27 July at 8:50am. Duey the Dugong will also make a guest appearance.