The work of young, dedicated environmentalists at Telopea Park School has been recognised at the Young Canberra Citizen of the Year Awards.

Established in 1989 and celebrated each year, the awards are an opportunity to recognise and celebrate young people who achieve great things across areas such as education, science, culture, sport, the community, arts and the environment.

In terms of their commitment to environmental sustainability, waste reduction and regeneration, the team at Telopea have set the bar high and made themselves role models for future generations, according to award sponsor Ginninderry.

Ginninderry’s Sustainability Manager Jess Stewart said that the development team behind Canberra’s first and only 6 Star Green Star Community was proud to have supported the Young Canberra Citizen of the Year Environment and Sustainability Award for the past decade.

“The work the students at Telopea have achieved is synonymous with what we are trying to achieve at Ginninderry and we are so proud to see such commitment coming from local young people. We look forward to them taking their passionate message to the rest of the community and the region.”

Telopea’s Eco-délégués group won the 2023  Environment and Sustainability award. Comprised of 20 students from primary and secondary school from within Australian and French streams, the students worked in a completely bilingual environment.

Eco-délégués was recognised for its commitment to creating and promoting waste-wise and green culture within their school environment. They achieved this through a range of creative activities that promote waste-wise concepts, and sustainable practices such as reducing energy, tree planting, a “no plastic in your lunch box” challenge, School Clean Up Australia Day, World Wildlife Day, World Bee Day, and water conservation practices.

In addition, Eco-délégués initiated fundraising activities For World Water Day for a charity WaterAid Australia which helps the poorest countries to have access to clean water, and during National Tree Day, where students raised money for environmental charities by selling seeds.

Jess said that the selection panel had been inspired upon hearing about the work of these passionate students.

“It really is great to see young people making such a positive impact each year. These young people may become future residents of Ginninderry and it is heartening to know that our legacy of building sustainable communities will be embraced by the next generation.”

The Young Canberra Citizen of the Year Awards are supported by the ACT Government and sponsors such as Ginninderry, who are committed to recognising the diversity and talent of individuals and groups from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences.