Local projects secure gold at sustainability awards

THREE local environmental projects have been lauded for their contributions towards a more sustainable and resilient society at the 2023 Keep Australia Beautiful Victoria Tidy Towns and Cities – Sustainability Awards.

The Farm My School project at Bellarine Secondary College, Climate Safe Rooms and Barwon Region South West Community Power Hub initiative were all crowned winners at October’s awards ceremony.

The Keep Australia Beautiful Victoria Tidy Towns and Cities Awards celebrate the environmental achievements and community spirit of community groups, councils, educational institutions, and businesses across Victoria.

The Farm My School project successfully turned a disused soccer field at Bellarine Secondary College into a community built 1.5acre market garden, supplying food to locals and promoting healthy eating habits.

The Climate Safe Rooms initiative saw Geelong Sustainability help to enhance the comfort of the homes of some of the region’s most vulnerable by creating energy efficient rooms which were fully insulated, draught-proofed and equipped with high-efficiency air-conditioning and solar.

Geelong Sustainability also led the Barwon South West Community Hub project which united nine community energy groups to develop and deliver implementation-ready renewable energy projects and practices for a greener future.

Mayor Trent Sullivan said the City of Greater Geelong was proud to support the delivery of all three award winning projects.

“Council congratulates the many dedicated community members involved in the winning projects that aim to protect and enhance our environment through community action.

“We are also proud to see our City-led and supported projects, guided by our Clever and Creative aspirations, have resonated with the community.

“All these initiatives empower the community, change behaviour, reduce waste and inspire others to get involved and for that, we thank you!”

A further three regional projects were also selected as finalists at the annual awards – Bellarine Rail Trail Environmental Restoration, Modern Cloth Reusable Nappy Program and Geelong Community Solar Program.