We are thrilled to announce that Year 4 student Alexander Sunderland has been named the winner of the Southern Downs Regional Council’s regional art competition! Alex’s creative and inspiring recycling-themed artwork was selected from entries across the region and will now be featured on 100 reusable Boomerang Bags. 

This competition was part of the Council’s initiative during Planet Ark’s National Recycling Week (NRW), held from 11–17 November 2024, which encouraged young artists to explore what recycling means to them. The theme, “Join the Cycle,” aimed to inspire communities to improve recycling habits and embrace sustainable living.

Council’s waste education mascot, Sort-It Sally, was especially excited to see the creativity of the region’s young eco-heroes. “From reducing waste to repairing and reusing, there’s no limit to the ways we can make a positive impact,” said Sort-It Sally. “Through Council’s waste education program, Let’s Sort It Out, Southern Downs!, we’re showing kids the sustainable impact of recycling.”

Students were invited to draw a picture that showed what recycling means to them, with the chance to have their artwork featured on Council’s reusable bags. Alex’s winning entry stood out for its creativity, message, and artistic flair.

? Did You Know? Since National Recycling Week began in 1996, Australia’s recycling rate has grown from just 7% to over 60%! To learn more or get involved, visit nationalrecyclingweek.com.au.

Congratulations again to Alex Sunderland for this outstanding achievement.