Local students selected for Youth Environment Council

Erin Cousins from Booborowie Primary School, Julique Stanton from Blyth Primary School, Lisan Stocco from Auburn Primary School, and John Stone and Jack Gamble from Moonta Primary School were selected through an application process from years 7-10 students across South Australia.

Natural Resources Northern and Yorke, Lower and Mid North district community ranger Bonnie Maynard says the Youth Environment Council provides an excellent opportunity for students to develop environmental and leadership skills.

"Our student reps should be commended for their nomination and participation. It takes a lot of courage for young people to step out of their comfort zone, leaving their school and hometown to visit new places and meet new people to be part of this council," she said.

"It is a fantastic opportunity for them to meet like-minded students and come together to share their passion for the environment, build their leadership skills and explore environmentally sustainable ideas and actions."

The Youth Environment Council is a joint initiative of Natural Resources Adelaide Mount Lofty Region and the Department of Education and Child Development, and is supported by Natural Resources Northern and Yorke (NRNY).

The council complements the Young Environmental Leaders program which is being run successfully by NRNY in schools across the region.

The Youth Environment Council is made up of more than 60 student representatives from across South Australia, who met at the Botanic Gardens in Adelaide recently for the first sustainability forum for 2015.

Youth Environment Council recruits took part in a series of activities, some of which were led by student mentors and continuing YEC councilors.

During 2015, the five Northern and Yorke representatives will also take part in a three-day camp, online networking workshops and a sharing and celebration forum to wrap up the year.

"The Youth Environment Council provides young people with an opportunity to explore key environmental issues facing SA, gives them a voice and encourages them to make a real difference to sustainability in their schools and community,"Ms Maynard said.

For more information contact Bonnie Maynard at the Natural Resources Centre Clare on 8841 3475.