Last night Environment Victoria held its 2014 Community Environmental Recognition Awards. The awards recognised the achievements of remarkable groups and individuals from around the state who have made an outstanding contribution for the environment through community action.
Those recognised were:
Western Port and Peninsula Protection Council for their fantastic work over many decades to protect the world class marine and coastal ecosystems of Western Port from further Port expansion.
Yes2Renewables, a dynamic grassroots campaign hosted by Friends of the Earth that operates on a shoestring budget, for their work with local communities to protect the future of Victoria’s renewable energy industry.
Lizette Salmon for being a powerhouse of local environmental action and coordinating WATCH (Wodonga Albury Towards Climate Health) to engage the local community in climate change issues and advocate to community leaders and decision makers for climate action.
Strath Creek Landcare Group for their stunning restoration of King Parrot Creek, with breeding areas for the threatened Macquarie Perch being fenced off from cattle grazing, and on their way to being restored to a natural state.
Surf Coast Air Action for their tireless advocacy for clean air on the Surf Coast, campaigning for the closure of the highly polluting and environmentally damaging Alcoa Anglesea brown coal mine and power plant.
Werribee River Association for three decades of work and community engagement to protect and restore the Werribee River.
Lighter Footprints Writing Group for their well-coordinated and prolific letter writing campaign run over three years.
Climate Action Moreland and 350.org for their successful campaign to get Moreland City Council to divest from fossil fuels – becoming the first council in Victoria to do so.
Voices of the Valley for standing up for the rights of coal-affected communities in the Latrobe Valley. After the Hazelwood mine fire, they were key advocates calling attention to the health impacts of the fire.
Environmental Justice Australia for continuing to provide vital legal support to community groups across the country after the sudden removal of their funding by the federal government.
Environment Victoria’s 2014 Election Campaign volunteers for their committed and successful efforts to get the environment on the agenda for the state election and beyond.
Environment Victoria CEO, Mark Wakeham said:
“The extraordinary efforts of these groups and individuals are truly inspiring. They are true environmental champions.”
“Speaking up for our environment can be a tough and often thankless task. Yet strong community voices have been fundamental to every major environmental outcome ever achieved in Victoria.
“We thank these outstanding individuals and organisations and the many other people across Victoria working hard to protect our magnificent environment.”
Biographies and photos of the winners are available from Cameron Wheatley on 9341 8107
For media comment, contact Mark Wakeham, CEO, Environment Victoria, 0439 700 501