GLOUCESTER farmers, businesses and community organisations are being encouraged to put their sustainability initiatives on the state stage, with entries open for the 2026 NSW Sustainability Awards.
While sustainability can conjure images of major renewable energy projects and corporate net-zero targets, across the Gloucester district, it often shows up in more practical ways – in paddocks, soils, waterways, and how land and resources are managed.
Mid Coast 2 Tops Landcare Connection (MC2T) has been working with local landholders through initiatives including the Gloucester Multi Species Crop Trial, exploring practical ways to build more resilient pasture-based grazing systems.
MC2T President Carolyn Davies said these practices could improve soil health, reduce inputs and potentially improve livestock performance.
“Following the May 2025 floods, poor pasture quality prompted MC2T Landcare to support its members by subsidising the purchase of multi-species cover crop seed,” she said.
The NSW Sustainability Awards are looking to recognise this type of practical, locally driven initiative.
Banksia Foundation chief executive Graz van Egmond said some of Australia’s best examples of sustainability were not found in corporate boardrooms.
“They’re happening every day on farms, in regional businesses and in communities across NSW,” she said.
“Sustainability is about doing things better. It might be a farmer using water, energy or fertiliser more efficiently, improving soil and biodiversity while maintaining productivity.
“It could be a regional business reducing waste and costs, finding a new use for something that was previously thrown away, or creating local jobs.”
The Regional Sustainable Development Award recognises organisations and communities delivering environmental, social and economic sustainability outcomes, with regional entrants also eligible for a range of other award categories.
Ms van Egmond said entrants did not need a sustainability department or a glossy report.
“We are looking for practical ideas that are working and delivering real results,” she said.
“Regional NSW has always been a place where people innovate, adapt and find practical solutions to difficult problems. Too often, however, those achievements remain known only within the local community.”
For Gloucester farmers, businesses and community groups who may not consider what they do to be “sustainability”, she had a simple message.
“You may simply see it as good farming, good business or looking after your community.We see it as leadership, and it deserves to be recognised.”
Entries close 23 September.
By Sonja DUNCAN
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