The 2006 calendar has been delivered to Junee and district households. If you didn’t receive one or would like additional copies, they are available from the Community Centre in Belmore Street, Junee.

It is my great pleasure to present to the Junee community the Our Environment: It’s a Living Thing Calendar. This project is the result of the Department of Environment and Conservation’s Sustainability Education Program: Local Council Partnership Initiative.

I would like to acknowledge all the young people of our community who recognize the importance of environmental issues, and particularly those who feature in the calendar for their time and commitment to this important issue. It must also be recognized that the teachers and supporters of these young people play an important role in raising the awareness of our younger community members who will play a crucial role in the future of our environment. I am sure they will continue to take the message back to their homes and families.

By reducing waste, saving water and using less electricity and chemicals we can create a healthier environment for ourselves and our children. There are many everyday living things that people can do locally. The introduction of kerbside recycling in Junee is one of Council’s initiatives and I am very pleased with the community’s response to this.

“Sustainable living” is about changes peoples can make today that will benefit our lives now and in the future. Junee Council is a partner of the Our Environment – It’s a Living Thing program which educates the community about protecting the environment. I encourage everyone to think about how they can help to make a difference, remembering that little things add up to a much bigger picture.

While many people are taking steps to make our environment healthier, there is always more we can do. I encourage local residents to take action today.

For more information on how to protect the environment at home, work and play visit www.livingthing.net.au or call into Junee Shire Council.

Lola Cummins - Mayor