SOUTHERN Grampians Shire Council (SGSC) has been pleased to introduce the 2024 Sustainability Schools Competition; an inspiring new initiative designed to encourage local schools to embrace a sustainable future.

This competition offers a unique opportunity for students to showcase their innovative ideas, with the winning proposal receiving Council funding of up to $20,000 to implement the winning project.

SGSC mayor, David Robertson shared his enthusiasm for the initiative.

“Young people of the Southern Grampians Shire play a vital role in shaping a more sustainable future,” he said.

“Council’s Sustainability Team will work closely with schools and participating students to help shape ideas, provide industry contacts while supporting schools with their entries.

“Our sustainability team will be visiting schools over the coming months to help students develop their ideas, plan their project, and put together their business cases.

“Through learning and active participation, this initiative will allow our young people’s voices to be heard, and for action to happen.”

Council is committed to the transition to a Circular Economy and Sustainability, therefore the ideas, problems and solutions must address issues related to waste, natural environment, energy, water or sustainability more broadly.

To enter the competition, students must be in years 7-10 from any school within the Southern Grampians Shire.

Each school may submit up to three projects by 4pm on Friday, September 20 via the Council website and all participating schools have also been provided entry details.

All participants will receive movie vouchers and special recognition, with additional prizes for the winning team.

A presentation will be held in November with event details to be provided closer to the date.

“We are excited to see ideas develop from the minds of our future generations in shaping what sustainability practices look like to them,” Cr Robertson said.

“Whether that’s Australia’s biggest Wheelie bin, new routes for town buses for active transport, or an app to link community and volunteers – we’ve already heard some great proposals.

“This collaboration will provide students with invaluable experience in project planning, leadership, and industry engagement, as well as having the opportunity to implement a project for change to contribute to a better way forward for our environment.”

Submissions will be evaluated on key criteria including innovation, feasibility, implementation, as well as alignment with Council plans and visions.

This competition not only aims to foster creativity and innovation among students but also to strengthen the community’s commitment to sustainability.

All eligible students are encouraged to participate and Council looks forward to seeing the amazing ideas they will bring forward.

Council also extends an invitation to local businesses and agencies interested in sponsoring, mentoring, or partnering with a project idea.

For more information, please contact the SGSC Sustainability Team at sustainability@sthgrampians.vic.gov.au

For further details on how to get involved including competition guidelines, terms and conditions, and entry link please visit Council website at sthgrampians.vic.gov.au