7 November 2024
Southern Downs Regional Council is on the lookout for young waste warriors to design the region’s next recycling-themed artwork!
During Planet Ark’s National Recycling Week (NRW) from 11 – 17 November, Council invites budding artists to grab their colouring pencils, paints and crayons to create a masterpiece that could be featured on Council’s very own waste education reusable bags.
This year’s NRW theme, Join the Cycle, is all about inspiring communities to up their recycling game and adopt sustainable practices.
Council’s waste education mascot, Sort-It Sally, is eager to see what recycling means to the region’s next generation of eco-heroes.
“As a community, reducing unnecessary waste is crucial for extending the life of our landfill,” said Sort-It Sally.
“From reducing waste to repairing and reusing, there’s no limit to the ways we can make a positive impact towards a greener future.
“Through Council’s waste education program, Let’s Sort It Out, Southern Downs!, we’re showing kids the sustainable impact of recycling.
“During National Recycling Week, we’re calling on our young artists to bring their recycling ideas to life! So, don’t miss this chance to showcase your creativity and eco-consciousness.”
Draw a picture that shows what recycling means to you and celebrate Planet Ark’s National Recycling Week with us! Competition opens on Monday 11 November and closes Sunday 17 November 2024. More information and entry forms are available
online on Council’s website.
Sort-It Sally is also encouraging students to think about the everyday waste they generate and how to divert it from landfill.
“With 50% of our household waste coming from organic sources, we’re educating students on ways to reduce food waste with worm farming, composting and waste auditing.”
In support of NRW, Council is also participating in the Garage Sale Trail, held nationwide on 9-10 and 16-17 November. There are 31 local sales already registered in the Southern Downs, and Council’s Warwick and Stanthorpe Recycle Endeavour Shops are also participating. Head to garagesaletrail.com/southern-downs for more information.
Southern Downs Councillor Sarah Deane said the Endeavour Recycle Shops are treasure troves of hidden gems, offering unique finds that benefit both our community and the environment.
“Every item purchased from our Recycle Shops not only reduces waste but also supports the incredible work of the Endeavour Foundation,” Councillor Deane said.
“Participating in the Garage Sale Trail during National Recycling Week highlights our commitment to sustainability and the circular economy, making us part of a nationwide movement that celebrates reuse and positively impacts our planet.
“It’s a great weekend idea to wander around the local garage sales, and don’t forget to stop by the Endeavour Recycle Shops along the way!”
The Warwick Recycle Shop is open Wednesday afternoon and all day Saturday. The Stanthorpe Recycle Shop is open Thursday afternoon and all day Saturday. Both sites will continue to open as per usual across the event weekends, operating on the Saturdays.
Additional
National Recycling Week was founded in 1996 as an opportunity for Australians to take waste and recycling into their own hands by improving their recycling knowledge and building better recycling habits. Since then, the annual recycling rate in Australia has increased from just 7 per cent of all disposed materials to more than 60 per cent.
To learn more or get involved in National Recycling Week, visit
nationalrecyclingweek.com.au.
Last edited date 07 Nov 2024