Competition turns debris into art for National Threatened Species Day

To celebrate National Threatened Species Day this year, a competition with a twist for local high schools will see marine debris turned into art.

The competition is being held by NSW Department of Primary Industries Solitary Islands Marine Park, in conjunction with Dolphin Marine Magic, Jetty Dive and National Marine Science Centre.

Solitary Islands Marine Park manager, Nicola Johnstone, said students would be set a challenge to create an artwork depicting a local threatened species, which had been made from marine debris they had collected.

"The Solitary Islands Marine Park is home to a number of threatened species including the great white shark, a number of migratory sea birds, cetaceans and turtles," she said.

"Marine debris is a hazard for all sea creatures, and an added danger to the survival of species already listed as threatened or endangered."

National Threatened Species Day is held each year on 7 September to commemorate the death of the last captive Tasmanian tiger at Hobart Zoo in 1936.

Ms Johnstone said winners of the three categories (Years 7 and 8, Years 9 and 10 and Years 11 and 12) would receive a family pass to the Pet Porpoise Pool and a marine themed reference book of their choice to the value of $100 for the school’s library.

The winning artwork and finalists will be displayed at the National Marine Science Centre during September.

"We are contacting and encouraging local high schools to take part in this very worthwhile and creative competition,"
Ms Johnstone said.

"Could teachers who are interested in participating please contact the Solitary Islands Marine Park for more information on (02) 6691 0600."

Entries for the competition close on Friday 31 August. Winners will be announced on Friday 7 September.

Photos of last year’s winning entries are available from sarahc@sf.nsw.gov.au

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