The Noosa Biosphere Reserve has been awarded the coveted UNESCO Michel Batisse Award for excellence in biosphere reserve management thanks to the Keep it in Kin Kin project.
Noosa Biosphere Reserve Foundation (NBRF) executive coordinator Sharon Wright prepared the application in January, putting forward the Keeping it Kin Kin project as an exemplary case study of people living in harmony with nature. The application was endorsed and submitted to UNESCO by the Australian Man and the Biosphere National Committee.
“We are incredibly proud to have won this international accolade. It is a first for Australia and highlights the Noosa community’s dedication to improving and protecting our natural environment,” Ms Wright said.
“This award is the highest UNESCO accolade for biosphere reserve management and truly represents what makes Noosa special – our people. The award recognises the importance of community groups, governments and individuals working together to find local solutions to the global challenges of sustainable development.”
Keeping it in Kin Kin is an erosion remediation project improving agricultural productivity, waterway health and water quality within the Noosa Catchment.
“I would like to thank Phil Moran and the wonderful team at Noosa & District Landcare who implemented the Keeping it Kin Kin project, and project partners Noosa Shire Council, Healthy Land & Water, Noosa Parks Association, The Thomas Foundation, Kin Kin Community Group, Noosa Integrated Catchment Association and Country Noosa,” Ms Wright said.
Noosa Mayor Clare Stewart said the international award recognised the efforts of everyone involved.
“It’s a great achievement,“ she said.
Noosa and District Landcare Group general manager Phil Moran said they were very pleased to have played a leading role in this outstanding project.
“The number of partners involved reflects the community and organisational buy-in the project has attracted,“ he said.
The Foundation will launch its inaugural Noosa Biosphere Awards program this month to celebrate excellence in sustainability as part of the 50th anniversary of the UNESCO Man and the Biosphere Programme. Winners will be recognsied at the Noosa Biosphere Gala on 2 November. For more information, visit noosabiosphere.org.au
