Nominations for the 2019 Environment Southland Community Awards opened today, with chief executive Rob Phillips saying there has never been a more important time for Southland residents, farms, businesses or community groups to share the great environmental work they do.

The annual awards recognise the achievements of individuals, groups, farms and businesses in the Southland community.

Mr Philipps encouraged those who are eligible to nominate.

“The Environment Southland Community Awards are not just an opportunity to acknowledge the effort everyone is putting in to looking after the natural environment, but also a chance to spread the passion for what you are doing - and gain support for this vital work happening around our region.”

This year, special focus has been given to the rural and business categories, with the aim of encouraging nominations from all those that are on an environmental journey – whether they be at the beginning or at the conclusion.

“Every year the calibre of nominations is extremely high, and the awards evening is a great opportunity to celebrate those looking after Southland’s amazing natural environment." Mr Philipps said. "We often see reluctance to enter because a project has only made a small impact and isn’t near completion. It is important that we acknowledge those groups or individuals making changes with a clear vision for future impact, because it is those small steps that will lead to greater change in our community.”

Six different award categories cater for all kinds of environmental projects and activities. The categories include individual, rural, education, community and business. The same project can be nominated in up to two categories. 

Projects entered must be either located in Southland, have been developed in Southland or be of demonstrated benefit to the region. People can nominate their own project or another project that makes a positive contribution to the environment.

Winning entries receive sponsored prizes that include cash, travel or native plants, and this is the 24th year the awards have been held.

The 2019 winners will be announced at a gala dinner to be held in Invercargill in early October. 

Award nominations close on 26 July.

More information can be found on the Environment Southland website www.es.govt.nz and nominations can be made online at: www.haveyoursay.es.govt.nz