feature students encouraged to focus on the environment

focus environment previous winner - parrots

Western Australian school students are being encouraged to explore the State’s biodiversity through the camera lens, with entries for the 2018 Chevron Focus Environment photography and caption competition now open.

Chevron Australia has supported the annual competition for the past 15 years as a way of encouraging students to be aware of the world around them and to make a commitment to caring for the environment and protecting it for future generations.

The competition, open to all WA primary and secondary students, includes three subject categories that reflect Chevron’s core values of protecting people and the environment:

Focus on WA's native species
Focus on WA's habitats and ecosystems; and
Focus on Sustainability in WA

A highlight of the competition is the prestigious Harry Butler Award, presented to one finalist every year in memory of Harry and his dedication to raising awareness about natural history and environmental conservation.

The Lyn Beazley Encouragement Award returns for the third year in 2018 and aims to recognise students with disabilities or learning difficulties.

Former WA Chief Scientist Professor Lyn Beazley hopes to carry on the legacy established by her close friend Dr Harry Butler - who was a passionate advocate of the competition and its ability to raise environmental awareness and understanding among young people.

"Engaging students in science and environmental education from a young age is essential to biodiversity conservation.”

Professor Lyn Beazley

Former Chief Scientist of WA

The competition is run in partnership with The West Australian newspaper’s Media Education program, the competition also provides students and teachers with a range of education resources linked to the curriculum.

To enter, visit education.thewest.com.au