Half a world away from Glasgow and the COP26 Climate Summit, two young boys in Port Elliot are showing the way and doing their part to help save the planet and their local environment.

Thomas and Matthew Sullivan have been working hard to keep their local beach clean and encourage recycling for the last 12 months, with their dedication and philanthropy recognised with a Minister for Education Award.

The Encounter Lutheran students, aged 11 and 9, travelled to Adelaide last week to be personally presented with their award by Minister for Education John Gardner.

The Award is given to children who have demonstrated outstanding achievement in any endeavour, including community service.

Thomas and Matthew first started regularly picking up cans and rubbish at Horseshoe Bay in November last year. 

They then made signs and put out crates during the school holidays to encourage beach goers to recycle cans and cartons, rather than throw them in the general waste bins.

The boys collected the contents of the crates daily and took the bottles to be cashed in at local recycling centre. They then donated the money collected to the Victor Harbor Sea Scouts.  So far, they have donated nearly $4000 and are aiming to reach $5000.

The boys were nominated by Councillor Bronwyn Lewis, who has taken their message of recycling to the Alexandrina Council, asking for public recycling bins to be placed at the beach and other areas around Port Elliot.

As a result, council are now reviewing their policy around recycling bins on popular beaches.

When presenting the awards, Minister Gardner said the boys were part of an outstanding and diverse group of young people who inspired great confidence in the future.

The boys will continue their fantastic work this summer so keep an eye out and give them a wave to show your appreciation.