Congratulations are in order for schools and students across Victoria. The 2025 entrants into the ResourceSmart Schools Awards have thoroughly impressed us.
Special recognition must be given to Kardinia International College and Wandin Yallock Primary School, winners of the CDS Vic Excellence Award at this year’s ceremony. As the name suggests, we’ve sponsored this award, and it recognises the amazing work these schools are doing to reduce waste and raise funds with Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme.
Kardinia International College, in Geelong, won the secondary school category for the work of their Earthcore group. Led by students Elise White and Geneveive Bass, the group started collecting containers in 2024, and it quickly became part of the fabric of the school.
“It’s amazing because the money goes to our school sustainability fund. We have a vege garden and an indigenous garden,” Geneveive says. “We also got to show to people how those drink containers can produce this outcome.”
In the primary school category, Wandin Yallock Primary School took the award for their collection efforts. Led by students, their program fosters respect for the environment and helps its participants develop leadership skills. It’s even got a mascot: a sea turtle soft toy named Eco, purchased with refunds.
“Our schools are producing incredibly impressive projects that are delivering real environmental benefits across the state,” said Minister for Environment Steve Dimopoulos.
“Students gain hands-on experience in sustainability, how to reduce waste, conserve energy, and protect the environment while gaining skills that will be with them for life.”
We’re proud of these emerging environmental leaders, and thrilled to be able to support their learning. Well done to our winners and to all the schools that entered.
Want to know more?
- Check out our schools fundraising page
- Read the full list of ResourceSmart Schools Awards winners
- Find out how to donate your refund
