Sustainability champions recognised in annual photo competition
Published on 14 September 2026
The winners of Rockhampton Regional Council's Sustainability in Action Photo Competition have been announced, highlighting the creative and practical ways locals are helping create a more sustainable future.
Held annually, the competition invites households and schools across the region to showcase the everyday actions they are taking to reduce waste, conserve resources and care for the environment.
Environment and Sustainability Councillor Elliot Hilse said he was impressed by the creativity, and resourcefulness shown by each of the entrants.
"When people hear the words ‘environmental sustainability’, they may think it’s something big or complicated, but it really starts with the simple, small choices we make every day,” Cr Hilse said.
"That's what our Sustainability in Action Photo Competition is all about, showcasing the many different ways people are making a positive impact – from composting food scraps, to saving water, to fixing something instead of throwing it away.
"On their own, these actions might seem small, but when we all do them and regularly, they make a big difference.”
Cr Hilse said the competition has recognised three households and ten schools as 2026 Sustainability Champions.
"We were blown away by the entries this year and it was fantastic to see so many schools involved,” he said.
"We saw entries from students who are growing their own fruit and vegetables, tackling food waste through worm farms, compost bins and school chickens, creating habitats for wildlife, and finding ways to save water.
“Congratulations to all our winners, and to the schools, teachers and residents making such a positive impact in our community."
One of the local champions recognised this year is Kelly Donaldson, whose family regularly grow their own produce, not just for the plate, but also for around the home.
"One of the ways we try to be more environmentally sustainable is by using home-grown luffas for cleaning around our house instead of using plastic store-bought sponges," Mrs Donaldson said.
"They’re great because they are natural, we’re able to put them into the compost and we also collect their seeds to then plant and grow more luffas later – so it’s really full circle.
“We grow them, cut them to size ready for use. They work really well for washing dishes and cleaning surfaces and even in the shower.
“It has become a family activity and something we enjoy doing together and such a great learning opportunity.”
2026 Sustainability Champions:
Household winners:
- Travis Donaldson
- Claire Bartlem
- Maragret Nouwens
School winners:
- Marmor State School
- Glenmore State School
- Rockhampton Grammar School
- Depot Hill State School
- North Rockhampton Special School
- Saint Mary’s Primary School
- Warraburra State School
- Parkhurst State School
- Saint Peters Catholic Primary School
- Rockhampton State School
For more information on the competition, and sustainability tips, head to:
https://www.rockhamptonregion.qld.gov.au/CommunityEvents/Environmental-Sustainability/Get-involved/Sustainability-in-Action-Photo-Competition