Mornington Peninsula cleans up at Keep Australia Beautiful awards
Published on 01 November 2024
The Mornington Peninsula has cleaned up at the 42nd Keep Australia Beautiful VIC Awards presentation for Tidy Towns & Cities Sustainability Awards.
With six wins and several finalist nominations, the Shire was the standout region on the night.
The awards were held on Monday 28 October at the Showtime Events Centre, South Wharf, and celebrated our state’s incredible community of motivated people who are passionate about the environment and sustainability.
Rye was announced as the Tidy Town of the Year, with Mount Martha, another Peninsula township, runner up with Beechworth.
Former Mornington Peninsula Shire staff member, Michelle McCready, who sadly passed away late last year, was recognised as the winner of the ‘Dame Phyllis Frost’ Award -a local hero who stands out in the community for taking steps towards a more sustainable future. Her daughter, Tash, accepted this award on her behalf and made a heartfelt speech about her mum.
Keep Australia Beautiful Victoria is one of Australia’s longest-standing environmental non-profits dedicated to protecting and enhancing our environment through community action.
The Mornington Peninsula also had success in the following categories:
Environment
- Tides of change: Clearing the way for coastal resilience (Shire) WINNER
Litter
- SHARE agency- Testing the effectiveness of mechanical beach cleaning( Rye - Josie Jones) WINNER
- Dob in a dumper (Shire) FINALIST
- Beach Patrol Mount Martha (Beach Patrol Mount Martha) FINALIST
Behaviour change campaigns and education
- Mornington Peninsula's Sustainability Education Program (Shire) WINNER
- Rye Community House Inc. (Rye Community House) FINALIST
- Moonah Woodland restoration - St Joseph’s Primary School Sorrento (St Joseph's Sorrento) FINALIST
EPA Litter
- Rye Community House Inc (Rye Community House) WINNER
Indigenous Culture
- Living Culture (Living Culture) FINALIST
Quotes attributable to CEO, John Baker
“I was delighted to be in attendance to celebrate these wins with our staff and our community. These awards are wonderful recognition for all those who care deeply about protecting our environment.
“I was particularly pleased to see Michelle McCready recognised for her long-term commitment and dedication to this cause. She was a much-loved staff member and I know this award would have meant a lot to her.”