These are the groups and individuals we recognised in 2015
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Since 1964, Croydon Conservation Society has provided a constant voice for the local environment in the eastern suburbs, and for wider issues like clean energy and global warming. One of their more innovative projects involves the use of satellite imagery to map damage to local bushland, which they then use to lobby local government for stronger protections. This year, we’ve given Croydon Conservation Society an award in recognition of their longstanding service to our environment and their stewardship of local bushland. |
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The Victorian National Parks Association has for many decades been at the forefront of nature conservation across Victoria’s public and private land, and its marine and coastal areas. For much of that time, part of their work has involved fighting the commercialisation of our precious National Parks. And this year they had a big win, with the incoming Andrews Labor Government banning cattle grazing for any purpose in the Alpine National Park. We recognise and congratulate the VNPA’s crucial, leading role in this victory. |
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Breakthrough, the National Centre for Climate Restoration, was established in 2014 to bring new momentum, and a new way of working, to the climate crisis. Led by longstanding climate and sustainability activists Luke Taylor, Giselle Wilkinson, Philip Sutton and David Spratt, Breakthrough has challenged the movement to consider adopting climate emergency campaigning to restore a safe climate. Breakthrough is responsible for a number of influential climate restoration forums, and has recently launched a series of reports in the lead-up to the UN climate talks. The next Breakthrough forum is planned for November 4. |
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John Pettigrew and Terry Court are active initiators, members and leaders of multiple environment groups in the Goulburn Valley. They work tirelessly to create positive change, and have been passionate advocates for environmental water recovery under the Murray-Darling Basin Plan and for a clean energy future in their region. This year we award their work in bringing national and international expert speakers to the region to increase awareness of climate change adaptation options, and ways to reduce the region’s eco footprint. |
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Earthworker aims to create an Australia-wide network of not-for-profit worker-owned cooperatives in sustainability-focused industries. Their first project, Eureka’s Future, is already producing high-quality solar hot water tanks in Dandenong, and they have plans to expand to the Latrobe Valley. Five percent of profits go towards their social justice fund and last year they completed their first installation of a solar hot water system in a low-income household using this fund. Earthworker is being recognised for bringing a tangible worker-focused solution to the climate crisis. |
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Since 2001, Stuart Fraser has led the Bendigo and District Environment Council in their determined environmental advocacy and representation of community concerns. They have worked extensively with the City of Greater Bendigo on a range of policies and planning schemes, and have maintained a constant public profile. Stuart and the Bendigo and District Environment Council are being recognised for their outstanding community leadership and engagement. |
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As a member of the Wombat Forestcareteam, Gayle Osborne has been a passionate advocate for the formal protection of the Wombat State Forest near Daylesford for many years. Recently Wombat Forestcare helped mobilise community opposition to a proposal for an open-cut gold mine that would have seen parts of the forest bulldozed, and the potential pollution of local waterways. We recognise Gayle and Wombat Forestcare’s years of thoughtful and dedicated advocacy for the flora and fauna of Wombat Forest. |
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Time and again Coal and CSG Free Mirboo North have successfully rallied to frustrate the state government’s and mining companies’ plans to turn the rolling hills of Mirboo North and district into a coal pit or gas well. The challenges keep coming, with a new set of coal exploration licences recently issued in the area. We recognise the group’s tireless efforts to ensure their community’s ‘coal and coal seam gas mining free’ declaration is respected and upheld. Their persistent grassroots campaign has inspired a movement against coal and coal seam gas mining in communities across Victoria. |
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Surf Coast Air Action have recieved an award for their successful community campaign to close Anglesea brown coal mine and power plant. Through their persistence and determination they have brought about the crucial first step in Victoria’s transition to a healthy and carbon-pollution-free economy, and proven that a powerful community can stand up for their health and our environment…and WIN! |
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Anne Kantor is a passionate environmentalist who has a deep understanding of the sustainability challenges humanity and the planet face, and she has done whatever she can to help deliver better environmental outcomes for Victoria and Australia over many decades. Anne has been an incredibly generous supporter of Environment Victoria since she started her association with the organisation nearly 30 years ago in 1986, and we thank her deeply for her longstanding contribution. |