This heritage embraces over one million plant and animal species and hundreds of ecosystems - which together make Australia a key centre for the earth's biodiversity. That plain statistical fact is one of the reasons why the work of everyday Australians in conserving our biodiversity is of such international importance. The Australian's who carry out that work, and those who give them real practical support and encouragement, are this country's eco-heros. On 6 September I will be presenting plaques to the winners of the Biodiversity Month 2000 Ecohero Awards. That will be an occasion, not only to honour the recipients of the awards, but a celebration of the enormous contribution of all of those Australians working to conserve our precious wildlife and their habitats.
TIN is a non-profit indigenous plant nursery and education centre.
TIN is a volunteer organisation and Faith developed a Schools Environment Program that was successfully run at a number of schools throughout the Newcastle region. The education programs focussed on biodiversity and habitat creation in the school playground, and was included in nature study programs operating in the schools. Through this program, large numbers of parents and staff also became involved, which now continues in Faith's absence. Faith now works for the Landcare and Environment Centre and at her local school, engendering community action in regard to biodiversity issues. Adult - Ray Thomas from Euroa, Victoria .