The Forbes educator received recognition for their Kitchen and Garden Program which includes an extensive fruit and vegetable garden maintained by students.

The Parents and Citizens Committee secured donations to build the garden and a further donation of about $40,000 worth of labour and materials was made by local businesses.

Tottenham and Trundle took out top Sustainable Communities Awards.

Tottenham was the winner of two award categories, and received Highly Commended in another.

The Packaging Stewardship Forum Waste Management and Litter Reduction Award was presented to Tottenham, population category A (up to 350 people) for the ’Do the right thing in Tottenham’s project.

First place was also awarded to Tottenham for Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water Wildlife Corridors and Habitats Conservation for their ‘Tree Planting Program’.

This project was created to establish a good tree line from the edge of town using native plants, and will support local insects and birdlife.

Tottenham also received Highly Commended for the Grundfos Water Conservation Award.

Trundle, population category B (351-1200 people) received 1st place in the Country Energy Bush Spirit Award for the Trundle Show which has expanded in recent years due to the ingenuity and dedication of many community groups and volunteers, bringing revenue into the town of Trundle.

Gooloogong and Cowra also took Tidy Towns Sustainable Communities Awards.

Cowra received 2nd place in the Overall Tidy Towns Award, category D (population of 4001-10,000) and Gooloogong took out 3rd place in the same Overall Tidy Towns Award for the smallest population category, category A (up to 350 people).

These awards reconsider a holistic approach to environmental issues such as resource management, heritage and wildlife conservation and community partnerships.