The Noosa Biosphere Reserve Foundation (NBRF) has announced its Noosa Biosphere Awards 2023 Finalists, on the International Day for Biosphere Reserves, 3 November.
“This is a significant day for biosphere reserves around the world and we couldn’t think of a more fitting time than today to announce the Finalists of this year’s Noosa Biosphere Awards,” said NBRF Chair, Fiona Berkin.
The Awards recognise individuals and businesses demonstrating environment and sustainability excellence in the Noosa Shire, in alignment with the UNESCO Man and the Biosphere programme.
“We’ve designed the Awards application to get entrants thinking about their impact from a global perspective. The steps we take in our local communities can help to address global challenges and indeed be shared and replicated in other regions – that’s what biosphere reserves are all about; sharing knowledge,” said Ms Berkin.
“Entries came in from all over the Shire – from businesses implementing innovative sustainability practices to biotechnology, from the individuals who are leading conservation efforts in our region to our young eco leaders. Noosa can be proud to have so many members of our community committed to making a difference.
“The 23 finalists represent our community’s unique approach to building a thriving local economy, while respecting the living environment around us. These shared values are what makes Noosa a great model to the rest of the world.
“The wonderful thing about these Awards, now in our third year, is our community has a platform to recognise and thank these groups for the good work they do,” said Ms Berkin.
The 2023 Noosa Biosphere Awards finalists are:
Land category, sponsored by International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW): Alsahwa, Eastwell Farms, NICA (Urban Wildlife Gardens), Rosecliffe Boutique Farm Cottages.
Water category, sponsored by UniSC: Alison Foley (Ten Little Pieces), Richard Howard (NICA), Sally Jensen (‘Pontoon’ film).
Wildlife category, sponsored by Land and Sea Brewery: Bushland Conservation Management, Detection Dogs for Conservation, Wildcare Australia – Noosa Team, Wildlife Noosa.
Young Eco Leader category, sponsored by Tewantin-Noosa Lions Club: Jarrah Small, Spencer Hitchen, Millie Toy, Taylor Ladd-Hudson.
People & Economy (Individual/Not-for-profit) category, sponsored by Community Bank Tewantin-Noosa: Noosa Regional Gallery (Floating Land: Us and Them), Noosa Environmental Education Hub (Noosa Youth Advocacy Group), Tourism Noosa (Tread Lightly), Zero Emissions Noosa (Community Battery/EV Expo).
People & Economy (Business) category, sponsored by Tourism Noosa: Eco Cottages, Mayan Farm, Provectus Algae, RACV Noosa Resort.
Entries were judged by an independent panel from across the community, including Rex Halverson, Peter Hunnam, Judy Castledine, Benjamin Derrick, Noosa Councillors Amelia Lorentson and Karen Finzel, and Noosa Biosphere Awards 2022 Young Eco Leader Winner, Jarrah Small.
“I’d like to thank our volunteer judges and wonderful sponsors for their support. Also, to the community for their nominations and each of the 2023 entrants. I wish all the Finalists good luck at the Awards night,” said Ms Berkin.
Winners will be announced at the Noosa Biosphere Awards ceremony sponsored by The Ogilvie Group’s Maravista Farm, on Thursday 30 November at the Sunshine Beach Surf Life Saving Club. Tickets are available for $25 at www.noosabiosphere.org.au/awards.
