2023-06-19
ACT school students have been congratulated for their prize-winning artworks, created to raise awareness of stormwater pollution and the importance of keeping our waterways healthy.
Minister for Water, Energy and Emissions Reduction Shane Rattenbury said the students created eye-catching designs while sharing information about simple actions that can protect ACT waterways.
“All the students have created artworks in their own unique style, but with one single message: our actions at home and in the street affect the health of our waterways,” Minister Rattenbury said.
“Healthy waterways are critical for the health and wellbeing of all Canberrans, the ACT environment and those living downstream of us. Leaves, grass clippings and garden fertilisers can all lead to nutrient pollution when washed into our waterways, causing harmful blue-green algae blooms.”
The Minister’s Prize went to Amaroo School Year 5 student Ji Won Hwang, for their striking design demonstrating the impacts of leaf pollution.
“Ji Won’s artwork is a great reminder of the impacts our actions can have on local species and that we all have a role to play in keeping pollution out of stormwater.
“Some of these designs will be used in public installations around the ACT, so keep an eye out for a colourful drain near you.”
The DrainART competition is an initiative of the ACT Healthy Waterways Program. For more information on how the ACT Government is tackling pollution in our lakes, rivers and ponds, visit the ACT Healthy Waterways Program webpage.
To view this year’s winning artworks, visit the ACT Government webpage.