Keep Australia Beautiful

The City of Kogarah in NSW has won the Keep Australia Beautiful, Australian Sustainable Cities Awards 2011. The announcement was made at the national awards ceremony hosted by the 2010 national winner, The City of Stirling in WA.

The Award recognises Kogarah for its proactive and innovative approach to sustainability and successfully engaging individuals, community groups, businesses and schools in a wide range of environmental projects and initiatives.

In addition to winning the overall title, Kogarah also picked up national awards for the Dame Phyllis Frost Litter Prevention and Heritage & Culture categories.

According to the Australian Sustainable Cities Judge, Dick Olesinski:

"Underpinning Kogarah‟s win was their all-inclusive approach to creating a more sustainable city. They have successfully combined a strong vision, holistic and inclusive planning, and effective on-ground actions to demonstrate real impact and results."

"Kogarah City Council‟s Community Strategic Plan was developed not only to reduce litter and rubbish across the city, but also to encourage all aspects of the community to take part. Their implementation of litter management, reduction and education programs earned them the "Dame Phyllis Frost" Litter Prevention Award." Olesinski added.

Kogarah also picked up the award for Heritage & Culture, recognising the history of the area and the growing diversity of the city. Kogarah City Council‟s implementation of the „Bright Future Better Lifestyle 2020‟ program recognises the city‟s aboriginal heritage, encouraging reconciliation and preservation.

The Australian Sustainable Cities Awards recognise efforts by residents, community groups, businesses and all levels of government to strive for a sustainable and litter free environment.

The Australian Sustainable Cities Awards 2011 are sponsored by the Do the Right Thing Program of the Packaging Stewardship Forum, Australian Food and Grocery Council, Visy Industries, ToysRUs, Replas and Tennant.

Further information about the Australian Sustainable Communities Awards can be found at www.kab.org.au