GUST founder wins Council environment award
Founding member of the Peninsula's Grow Urban Shade Trees group Ms Debbie Sunartha has won the Environment Award in this year's Central Coast Council Australia Day awards.
Council's Community and Culture Unit manager Mr Glenn Cannard said the annual awards were a chance to recognise the achievements of individuals who had made a positive contribution to the community.
"Debbie Sunartha has been quietly and consistently contributing to the environment on the Peninsula since 2015," he said.
"Debbie was instrumental in the design and coordination of the Runway Park upgrade in Trafalgar Ave, Woy Woy, and is a key leader in the transformation of a neglected area into a green haven of biodiversity, habitat, and shade.
"As a founding member of Grow Urban Shade Trees, Debbie has helped plant over 600 street trees in Umina, Ettalong and Woy Woy.
"Debbie recently funded and project managed a park upgrade in Australia Avenue Umina, with the park now a native garden designed to support local wildlife and bees."
Council administrator Mr Rik Hart said of the council's Australia Day awards: "To be recognised for your work and contribution to the local community at such a level, is a great achievement.
"Although many of us are still experiencing challenging times due to the ongoing pandemic, it is important that we continue to recognise those making outstanding contributions within our community and undoubtedly positively impacting the lives of many locals."
SOURCE:
Media release, 20 Jan 2022
Glenn Canard, Central Coast Council