Students at Reef Guardian schools throughout the region have been making a super effort to reduce plastic waste this week, welcoming Anthony Hills (Captain Plastic) from Plastic Pollution Solutions.
Bargara State School, Kepnock State High School and Kalkie State School hosted the global waste reduction educator as part of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority Reef Guardian Schools program.
Mayor Jack Dempsey joined students at Bargara State School in welcoming Mr Hill to the region.
“We have such diversity in natural beauty here in the Bundaberg Region and it is a treasure that we jealously protect,” Mayor Dempsey said.
“Every resident should be so proud of the effort students across the region are making to protect our environment and marine life.
“Council is doing its part by banning the release of helium balloons when outdoors in the Bundaberg Region and also not allowing plastic straws to be used at Council-run events or at the Moncrieff Entertainment Centre.”
Hotspot of awareness and action
Mr Hill said the school visits helped to start a conversation that could bring about change.
“Bundaberg and this region seems to be a little hotspot of awareness and action,” Mr Hill said.
“It could be something to do with your amazing turtle population here.
“I do think that people here have an amazing connection with the ocean and they know they need to protect it and the creatures.”
Reef Guardian project coordinator Judith Stutchbury said the visit was all about empowering the community to be a part of the solution to the plastic pollution problem.
“The creative educational presentations and activities allow participation in lifelong learning initiatives and activities that incorporate intergenerational learning,” Ms Stutchbury said.
“The presentation is designed to start a conversation about how we can also bring about behavioural change.”
Reef Guardian projects
- Bargara State School students have been producing beeswax wraps to replace plastic.
- Kepnock State High School students have been undertaking projects around reusable Boomerang Bags and coffee cups.
- Students at Kalkie State School have been making reusable cloth shopping bags and have taken the Plastic Ninja Pledge.
Mr Hill’s visit was funded through a Bundaberg Regional Council grant.
