22 May 2025
Who says saving the planet can’t be fun? Southern Downs Regional Council’s National Recycling Week Art Competition attracted an inspiring number of colourful and clever entries from primary school students across the region, but it was St Joseph’s School student Alex Sunderland’s vibrant artwork promoting recycling and waste reduction that impressed the judges the most.
His winning design of a recycling truck now takes pride of place on Council’s reusable tote bag, which is handed out to students through Council’s free waste education program and at various community-based events.
Council’s number-one waste-wise warrior Sort-It Sally was all smiles at the official unveiling of the bag at St Joseph’s School, praising Alex and all of the other entrants for their planet-positive creativity.
“Alex’s design really captured what we’re all about—fun, sustainability and taking action,” Sort-It Sally said.
“It’s inspiring to see young people thinking smart about waste and taking charge for a cleaner, greener future.”
Southern Downs Councillor Sarah Deane said Alex’s winning artwork illustrates the vital role young people play in shaping a more sustainable region.
“Reducing the amount of waste going to landfill starts at home, and small changes in recycling habits can make a big difference,” Councillor Deane said.
“When we recycle correctly, we not only reduce the volume of waste sent to landfill, we also help protect the environment and support our community.
“Young people like Alex and his peers are leading the way in showing us how small actions can have a big impact.
“His artwork doesn’t just look great on our reusable tote bag—it reinforces the message to the whole community about the importance of reducing waste and protecting our environment.”
The initiative is part of Council’s Let’s sort it out Southern Downs! program, which teaches students about the power of recycling, composting, worm farming and waste auditing. With 50% of household waste still made up of organics, the program encourages kids to think about what they throw away and how to divert waste from landfill.
The reusable tote bags are proudly produced locally on the Southern Downs by Stanthorpe Boomerang Bags from locally sourced recycled textile materials.
Last edited date 22 May 2025