The Australian Agricultural Centre is the winner of the 2024 NSW Sustainability Awards (Banksia Awards).

On Friday, November 15, the Australian Agricultural Centre was awarded the winner of the Primary Industries and Regional Development Award at the NSW Sustainability Awards ceremony held at the Australian National Maritime Museum. 

These awards honour outstanding achievements in sustainability, from community-driven initiatives to groundbreaking technological advancements, setting a benchmark for responsible environmental stewardship and social equity. 

The Australian Agricultural Centre's Astronomical Agriculture program was recognised for innovative STEM education, connecting over 800 primary school students with agricultural experiences and environmental awareness. 

Jo Marshall, CEO and co-founder said, “I’m thrilled that the Banksia Foundation has recognised the AAC as an emerging leader. This was our inaugural program, and it is wonderful to see the students engage with agriculture and develop an interest in understanding STEM. It has been incredibly rewarding to hear that students who attend the Ag Centre are benefiting from our unique approach to learning when they return to the classroom and at home. 

"This program has been running for three years, focusing on Sustainable Neighbourhoods. This year, we centered our efforts around Action for Change, and next year, our curriculum will focus on Blue Carbon. 

“This would not be possible without our partners and the community that supports it. Thank you,” Jo said. 

The program encourages young people to develop the skills to drive impactful environmental change and address the Sustainable Development Goals through local action. Teacher and project manager Anna from the Crookwell Academy of STEM Excellence teaches curriculum-based lessons for the Astronomical Agriculture program. 

This year’s winners represent a diverse range of sectors, each addressing critical environmental and social challenges with unique solutions. Supported by the NSW Government through the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment & Water (DCCEEW), the Banksia Foundation celebrates these remarkable achievements as part of its mission to drive transformative action towards a sustainable future. 

About the Banksia Awards

The NSW Sustainability Awards spotlight the remarkable accomplishments of individuals, organisations, and communities across NSW. Through the partnership between the Banksia Foundation and Department of Climate Change, Energy the Environment and Water (DCCEEW), our mission is to act as a catalyst for transformative action, driving sustainable innovation, inspiring collaboration, and ultimately contributing to a more sustainable future for the people and environment of NSW. 

The NSW Sustainability Awards are firmly grounded in the principles of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These goals constitute a comprehensive framework crafted to tackle the most urgent social, economic, and environmental challenges. Embracing the SDGs holds significant advantages for businesses, offering a strategic perspective to evaluate and align operations, products, and services with sustainable practices. 

18 November 2024

ENDS

Media enquiries

Clare McCabe | clare.scoutcommunications@gmail.com | 0427 428 426
Jo Marshall | info@australianagriculturalcentre.com.au | 0408 976 070