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Bill Ryan Activism Award

In honour of Bill Ryan who passed away in December 2019, Sutherland Shire Environment Centre has created an Activism Award in order to recognise peaceful environmental activism.

Bill Ryan’s civility, spirit, and determination have been an inspiration to so many.  His long history of engaging in non-violent, direct action was centred in his conviction that civil disobedience and the freedom to protest should be an essential feature of democratic society.  A veteran of the Second World War, and the Kokoda campaign, Bill advocated for an end to the Vietnam War and took part in the anti-apartheid protests in the 1960s and 1970s.

In his later years Bill was legally blind, but continued to campaign for action on climate change, attending protests until a week before his death, at 97 years of age.  Multiple arrests did not deter him. 

“I will be gone by the time climate change is in full swing”, he said, “but I am taking action for my grandchildren, great grandchildren and all future generations.” 

This award has been established in Bill Ryan’s name as a tribute to a much loved and remarkable man and to honour those who share his spirit of non-violent direct action for the benefit of the environment. 

Awarded for: Peaceful environmental activism that inspires others to take action for a better future for the planet.

Frequency:  Nominations will be considered each year, but awarded only at the discretion of the Board.

Eligibility:  An individual who has engaged in peaceful environmental activism that has elevated community awareness and confronted public apathy.  A demonstration of courage, creativity and / or persistence over a length of time is particularly desirable.  Nominees must reside in NSW, and preference will be given to those living in the Sutherland Shire. 

Recognition:  Presentation of certificate at our AGM and $1000 donated to an environmental charity or program of the winner’s choosing.  Publication on our website and Facebook page and general media.

Nomination:  A short nomination form can be submitted by anyone, including nominations for another person.  

Process: Award nominations announced via social media / the Sutherland Shire Environment Centre website and newsletter as well as general Media Release. 

Judging: The judging panel will be comprised of three members of the Sutherland Shire Environment Centre, including one member from the Board.

If you have any questions, please contact Tassia Kolesnikow on 9501-1505

Please download the nomination form

Or fill in online via this link

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31 August, 2020 @ 4:30 pm 5:00 pm AEST

Please note that applications must be received by 5pm, on 31 August, 2020

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