Mayor praises Whittlesea's environmentalists

Laurimar Primary School and Cara Horner from Epping have been awarded for being environmentally sustainable, winning Whittlesea Council’s 2010 Sustainable Living Awards.

They each received $1500 in prize money for winning their respective categories of Sustainable Schools and Sustainable Homes.

Mayor Mary Lalios said the calibre of entries “was exceptionally high”.

“That is demonstrated by the nine special commendations made to local householders and the two commendations made to local schools, as well as all our prize winners.”

Entries for the two award categories were judged against criteria for savings in energy, water and waste.

Laurimar Primary School received the award for collecting 120,000 litres of water in its tanks, placing buckets under taps, installing fluorescent lighting, appointing students as heat and energy reduction officers, recycling and arranging student litter patrols.

Epping Views Primary School came second winning $750, while Lalor Primary School came third, winning $250.

In the Sustainable Homes division, Ms Horner’s family has focused on behaviour change as much as they have on the features of their home and using efficient appliances.

Victoria and her family came second winning $750 and Vinitha and family won $250 for third place.

“They are an inspiration to all of us in their commitment to living sustainably,” Cr Lalios said.

The Sustainable Living Awards are presented by the City of Whittlesea and AVJennings’ Lyndarum and supported by corporate partner Westpac and media partner Whittlesea Leader.