Nominate a Sunshine Coast Ocean Hero

The coastal and marine environments of the Sunshine Coast are an important part of regional ecosystem, identity and culture.

Across the region, there are community members working everyday to champion these environments and the wildlife that calls it home.

Reef Check Australia thinks these Ocean Heroes deserve to be celebrated.

As part of the 50th Anniversary of the Naming of the Sunshine Coast Program, Reef Check Australia is putting out the call for nominations to the Sunshine Coast Ocean Hero project.

Reef Check Australia spokesperson Jennifer Loder said: “We think everyone has their role to play in being an Ocean Hero, and want to celebrate some of the outstanding efforts of individuals who have made a difference for the Sunshine Coast marine environment through research, education or conservation in the past 50 years.

“We’re proud of the great work our staff, volunteers and partners help to achieve for local reefs, and hope to acknowledge the diversity of community effort and also inspire more Ocean Heroes for the future.”

Up to 50 Ocean Hero nominees will be selected to be displayed in an interactive art installation prepared by artist Awkward Chat to be on display at the 2017 Caloundra Music Festival.

Mayor Mark Jamieson said the Ocean Hero project was a fitting activity to recognise community members who champion environmental conservation.

“During our 50th Anniversary year we are paying tribute to our residents who have contributed to valuable community efforts and helped make a difference with their efforts,” Mayor Jamieson said.

“The Ocean Hero project is also a great initiative to capture stories from our community that will help us to learn from the past to shape positive outcomes for the future.

“We strongly encourage our local community to nominate friends, family or colleagues who are champions of the marine environment and deserve some recognition for their efforts.”

Enter your nomination by August 17, 2017 at https://www.reefcheckaustralia.org/sunshine-coast-ocean-heroes.html