Council and EcoMarines double schools in 2023 environmental program

Redland City Council and Tangalooma EcoMarines will welcome six new Redlands Coast schools to the 2023 environmental education program following the successful delivery of the pilot in six other local schools last year.

EcoMarines is a not-for-profit organisation delivering programs to schools that educate students on a variety of environmental messages which empowers students to become conservation leaders in their community.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said Council was excited to sponsor EcoMarines again in 2023 after it was confirmed that six new Redlands Coast schools had signed up to participate in the environmental program.

Cleveland State School is participating in the EcoMarines program.

“Council is proud to be supporting EcoMarines for another year to help increase awareness on the importance of waste reduction, improve recycling behaviour, and inspire young people to care for our naturally wonderful Redlands Coast,” Cr Williams said.

“This year, EcoMarines will welcome an additional six local schools to the program while also retaining the six schools originally involved in the pilot program; and because of this increased support and ongoing interest, we’re able to continue sponsoring the program.

“EcoMarines educate and empower school groups and offer mentoring to student ambassadors who lead environmental activities or challenges within their school and local community to raise awareness and advocate for the protection of the environment.

“Not only is the program delivered in a fun and engaging way, but it also aligns with Council’s Waste and Reduction Recycling Plan through its Eco Heroes at Home resource material that ensures information on how to recycle and reduce waste is communicated effectively to school communities.”

EcoMarines General Manager Penny Limbach said the organisation was looking forward to continuing to work with Council and delivering the program in Redlands Coast schools.

“We’re excited to continue this partnership with Redland City Council and to see the incredible growth and interest in the program,” Ms Limbach said.

“This amazing level of engagement from students across the area will help improve the environment and empower the next generation to care and look after Redlands Coast.”

Cr Williams said the program and education materials also supported other Council environmental initiatives such as litter management, composting, koala conservation, and improving water quality in our local waterways.

“It’s so wonderful to see how the pilot program’s achievements last year – which included tree planting days, introducing waste-free lunch boxes, bush care nurseries, waste warrior art competitions and waste audits – support the work Council does in protecting and restoring our environment.

“Thank you to all schools who participated in the 2022 program and welcome to those starting this year – your commitment and hard work in helping to care for our environment is greatly appreciated and we can’t wait to see what you all do in 2023.”

Redlands Coast schools involved in the 2023 program include:

Victoria Point State School – Primary Star of the Sea Catholic Parish Cleveland State School Dunwich State School Macleay Island State School Victoria Point State School – High school Coolnwynpin State School Capalaba State College – Primary Hilliards State School Russell Island State School St Rita’s Catholic Primary School Vienna Woods State School

For more information on EcoMarines, visit ecomarines.org.