St Joseph’s receives Habitat Heroes Award

Federal Member for Hinkler Keith Pitt today congratulated St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School in Bundaberg on receiving the coveted title of ‘Reef Guardian School’.

Each year five schools receive $1000 from the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, in recognition of their positive on-ground environmental actions to help protect the Reef and its marine life.

“Reef Guardian School students are the future custodians of the Reef and this program is an important step in supporting their efforts and furthering their interest in caring for the environment,” Mr Pitt said.

“I congratulate the students and teachers at St Joseph’s on the great work they’ve been doing at Mon Repos to assist rangers, monitor rock pools and raise awareness of the importance of appropriate lighting during turtle nesting season.”

Mr Pitt was joined by State Opposition Environment Spokesman, Member for Burnett Stephen Bennett for a tour of the school.

“It was great to meet some of the participating grade 5 & 6 students, and their pet turtle,” Mr Bennett said.

“The Reef is facing challenges and all actions – big or small – are vital to the Reef’s future. Whatever we do today affects the future of our grandchildren, and I congratulate the school for taking positive steps towards a cleaner, better future.

“The former LNP government has a proud track record of protecting our reef and our endangered sea turtles.

“Everyone’s Environment grants provided some $12million to support practical environmental projects, including reducing light pollution on turtles nesting at Mon Repose Beach and improving water quality in the area.”

Catholic Education Assistant Director Schools Southern Region, Stephen Dale said, “The whole St Joseph’s community should be congratulated on their outstanding commitment to the environment.”

“Being an effective steward of the environment is an important aspect of the holistic education provided in our Catholic Schools. It is also important for students to experience practical ways that

they can help make the world a better place and I know they enjoy making a difference,” Mr Dale said.

Mr Pitt said representatives from the Great Barrier Marine Park Authority would visit St Joseph’s in the near future to see their work first hand and to formally present them with the Habitat Heroes Award certificate.

Media contact: Larine Statham 0427 653 814