The winners of (KAB) the Keep Australia Beautiful Awards, in the Tasmania Ma­jor Categories and Certificates of Excellence, were announced in December. Alison Johnson, Brighton Council’s Climate Resilience Officer, attended the event on King Island and received numerous awards and certificates on behalf of Council and local community groups. Minister for Environ­ment and Climate Change, Roger Jaensch MP was on hand to announce Oatlands as the winner of the 2022 Tasma­nian Sustainable Communities – Tidy Towns Award. Brighton was runner-up in the category.

KABTasmania state judge, Lona Turvey, said Brigh­ton impressed with its high level of community spirit and inclusiveness, as well as the partnership of Council with many groups and or­ganisations. “What they have managed to achieve is a range of innovative projects and programs with the intention of always involving the commu­nity. Their commitment to find solutions to some of the biggest issues confronting our society today, including climate change, reconciliation and social equity, is coura­geous and inspiring,” said Mrs Turvey.

It was with great pleasure that in January, Mayor Leigh Gray was able to present the Certificates of Excellence in person at the Council Cham­bers to representatives from the winning organisations. A huge congratulations to Jordan River Service Inc. (who received awards for the work they do with the Water­bridge Food Co-op and Jordan River Community Workshed), Mona’s 24 Carrot Gardens Tasmania Material Institute in Bridgewater and Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary.

Cathy Harper, who recently retired from Brighton Coun­cil, received the prestigious Community Citizen of the Year Award for her work in supporting the KAB awards and engaging with community to encourage entries. Cathy has supported KAB Tasmania over many years and is most deserving of this recognition on the eve of her retirement from Brighton Council. Well done Cathy!

Geoff Marsh, Chief Execu­tive Officer of Keep Australia Beautiful Tasmania, com­mended all the nominees, school submissions, and this year’s winners. “Every year the dedication and passion of the communities who enter the awards surpasses our expecta­tions. We’re fortunate to have caring and committed people making this state a wonderful place to live,” said Mr. Marsh.