Students participating in the Let's Get It Sorted program, helping their schools reduce waste and build a cleaner future.
15 October 2025
Bega Valley Shire Council's Let's Get It Sorted waste education program has taken out top honours at the Keep Australia Beautiful NSW Tidy Towns Awards, winning the Communication and Engagement category*.
The winners were announced on Saturday 12 October at a ceremony hosted by the 2024 titleholder, Parkes.
Delivered in partnership with Bournda Environmental Education Centre, the program helps schools reduce the amount of waste sent to landfill while educating students about sustainable waste management.
Council's Waste Strategy Coordinator, Tim Cook said this was a proud moment for the whole community.
"This award recognises a program that balances education, collaboration and action to deliver a lasting impact," Mr Cook said.
"The program was established in response to growing concerns about the environmental impact of waste generated by schools and the need for waste management education within the community.
"Through hands-on activities, it supports schools to conduct waste audits, analyse their results and implement tailored action plans through projects such as recycling initiatives and composting programs.
"These student-led projects not only reduce waste but also inspire a sense of ownership and responsibility for the environment."
Bournda Environmental Education Centre teacher and Waste Education Project Officer, Lara Poupard said the program's success comes from empowering students to lead change.
"Seeing young people take the lead in waste reduction and sustainability initiatives is truly inspiring and a vital step towards a healthier environment for future generations," Ms Poupard said.
Since the program began, 20 schools have participated, supported by more than 180 student volunteers and 32 teachers working together on their school waste teams.
"We are grateful to Bournda Environmental Education Centre and our schools whose commitment has been vital to the success of this program," Mr Cook said.
"Winning this award is not only recognition of what we've achieved so far, but also encouragement to keep building on this work into the future."
The Tidy Towns Awards recognise and celebrate projects focused on litter prevention, waste management, recycling, heritage, community spirit and other environmental areas in towns both large and small across NSW.
To learn more about the Let's Get It Sorted waste education program, visit Council's website.
* Population Category B - between 1,501 and 5,000 residents.
