Students in the ACT from year 5 to year 12 are being encouraged to draw, paint or create digital art that educates Canberrans about simple actions that can protect ACT waterways.
The DrainART competition is a unique way of communicating advice about keeping the ACT's waterways healthy.
The artworks the students create will be printed as large, durable, weatherproof stickers and installed on top of stormwater drain covers. Short videos will be featured on the H2OK website and on social media.
"Through DrainART, students will encourage the community to take actions that improve water quality and safeguard our water sources for the future," Minister Rattenbury said.
"It's important we do what we can to keep our waterways healthy by only letting rain down our stormwater drains.
"To avoid flooding, urban stormwater systems are designed to move water away from our homes and streets quickly.
"This means that the water running through urban areas is quick to carry rubbish, pollution, leaves, fertiliser, and soil sediments directly to our lakes, ponds and rivers. This creates water quality problems and can result in toxic algal blooms and lead to lake closures across the city.
"In the DrainART competition, participants have the chance to win a voucher worth up to $150, or a special Minister's prize worth $300. All winning artworks will be published online and selected designs may also be used in public installations around the ACT."
Minister for Education Yvette Berry said: "Our ACT schools teach students about how they can positively contribute to their communities and lead by example.
"I'm always impressed by the creativity and artistic talents of our children and young people, and I have no doubt that they will produce beautiful pieces that will start important conversations."
Submissions are now open and will close 6 April 2023.
