- Oct 22, 2020

Lake Mac schools recognised for their environmental efforts

Blacksmiths Public School and St Mary’s Catholic College, Gateshead, have taken out top honours in the 2020 Lake Macquarie School Environment Awards.

Lake Macquarie Mayor Cr Kay Fraser said the awards were an important opportunity to recognise and support the efforts of schools participating in environmental improvement projects.

“I really love how students engage with the School Environment Awards. It’s great to see young people with a passion for sustainability presenting wonderful ideas to help reduce waste, save water and care for our local environment,” Cr Fraser said.

St Mary’s Catholic College was recognised as the overall winner in the High School category for its active efforts in energy saving, waste reduction and improving the natural environment.

Science teacher Katrina Piper recognised the importance of giving students the opportunity and the tools to create lifelong learning and global change.

“Students are very aware of the environmental crisis that our planet faces,” Ms Piper said.

"Participating in the Environmental Awards encourages them to be involved and make a difference from the ground up."

Blacksmiths Public School was the overall winner in the Primary School category for employing sustainable actions including monitoring water usage, mulching gardens and installing timers on all watering systems.

Relieving Principal Mr Luke McIlvenie said the school aimed to improve environmental awareness among students.

“At Blacksmiths Public School, we focus on sustainability and understanding for our school community,” Mr McIlvenie said.

“School environmental leaders facilitate and foster student involvement with daily activities and processes that ensure the school is helping the environment.”

Edgeworth Heights Public School was awarded this year’s Most Improved. Achievements noted by judges included installation of dual flush toilets, herb and vegetable gardens and installation of a water tank.

Cr Fraser visited the school this week to tour the recent improvements.

“It was exciting to see some of the important initiatives they have introduced,” Cr Fraser said.

“I’m really proud of all the efforts made by the staff, students and parents in prioritising a greener future.”

Due to COVID-19 and social distancing regulations, Council conducted a travelling awards ceremony and visited schools separately to present the awards. Winner were spread across nine awards categories.

Major sponsor Hunter Resource Recovery supported the overall Primary and High School winners and Waste category.

The 2020 School Environment award winners: