EPA honours outstanding staff with Australia Day Awards

Eighteen outstanding members of the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) staff have been honoured today (Thursday 25) with EPA Australia Day Achievement Medallions.

Environment Minister Lindy Nelson-Carr said the awards recognised the dedicated staff and volunteers who contributed to the EPA’s vital work.

“Each year, selecting just a few people when so many are worthy is a difficult task,” Ms Nelson-Carr said.

“This year’s recipients have all demonstrated extraordinary skill and commitment to the EPA’s work and I’m proud to have them as part of our statewide team.

“They reflect a range of professions and roles in the agency, including managers, scientists, project leaders, administrators and volunteers.

“Their work includes national park administration and community liaison, biodiversity conservation, industry programs, information technology, customer services, wildlife conservation, resource planning, and environmental monitoring.”

The winners include:

• Rob Allan who, along with his Maryborough-based Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) team, has been recognised for his important role in developing the Fraser Island Management Plan, improving employment conditions for Island staff, and maintaining good relations with stakeholders and visitors.

• QPWS stalwart Shamus Conway from the Sunshine Coast for his work on the Tewantin forest areas and establishing a trailcare program.

• Dr Marty Gellender who is recognised for his outstanding achievements in developing and delivering the Queensland Sustainable Energy Innovation Fund (QSEIF) since its inception in 1999. Under his guidance and administration, the QSEIF program has provided $3.6 million in funding to Queensland businesses.

• Staff who helped the EPA upgrade and improve its operations. Darrin Blank headed the state-wide roll-in the EPA’s new “greener” personal computers, while Lisa Bourke led a hard-working team to redevelop the Ann Street, Brisbane, shopfront into an award- winning and sustainably operated customer service centre.

• Volunteers whose contribution is greatly valued by the EPA. This year, Marge Heriot, Brian Mason and Robert Ford have been recognised for their contribution to the Tweed River Entrance Sand Bypassing Project, along with Eric Martinez for his six year contribution as a Bush Volunteer at Brisbane Forest Park.

Ms Nelson-Carr said the list of recipients for Australia Day 2007 awards showed people in all roles make an invaluable contribution to the environment.

“Their work helps us look forward to a future in which environmental values are protected and sustained.”

Full list of recipients is available.

Media contact: Andie Gatti 3336 8002