Residents, community groups, schools and stormwater designers in the Parramatta and Holroyd areas are to be rewarded for their contribution to helping improve the local environment in the 2004 Regional Environment Awards. Nominations are now open for this year's awards, being organised by the Upper Parramatta River Catchment Trust and local councils.

The awards are open to anyone or any organisation in the Blacktown, Baulkham Hills, Holroyd and Parramatta local government areas whose activities or projects have helped the local environment.

At 97 years of age Frank Samuels, last years Diamond award winner, has been working in Third Settlement Reserve in Old Toongabbie for over 27 years.

The retired farmer said, "I have been planting trees and clearing weeds for a very long time now. The reserve has come a long way over the past 27 years. I wasn't expecting to win $6,250 at last year's awards. The money has gone towards building a park bench and table, as well as purchasing some more plants, and removing of weeds within the reserve."

Stephen Lees, the Executive Officer of the Upper Parramatta River Catchment Trust, added:
"Our community is working hard to help improve the local environment, often with very little recognition. The Trust and the Councils want to recognise those efforts and encourage everyone to keep up the good work. If you know of anyone who should be recognised, please nominate them."

Winners in the categories of individual, community group and school in each local government area will each receive $250 for a future environmental project. These winners among the councils will then be independently judged for a $1,000 prize in each category. The best overall nominee will collect the Diamond Award valued at $5,000.

To nominate yourself, or suggest a worthy person or organization, please call Mathew Ferguson at the Trust on 9891 4633 or visit the web site at www.uprct.nsw.gov.au for an entry form.

Applications close Friday 30 April 2004.