Lesmurdie Primary School has become a Waterwise school under State-wide program

19/10/99
Lesmurdie Primary School has become a Waterwise school under a State-wide program conducted by the Water Corporation.
Water Resources Minister Dr Kim Hames today presented the school with a Waterwise recognition certificate during its assembly as part of National Water Week.
Dr Hames said the Waterwise program aimed to educate students and, through them families and friends, about key issues related to water supply, wastewater treatment, and protection of water sources and the environment.
"This program helps tomorrow's adults make informed decisions about these issues which will only become more important as WA develops," the Minister said.
"The program also carries a strong message about the need to use water wisely, and this is particularly relevant as we approach another long, hot summer when water consumption increases dramatically.
"Our dams remain low levels and it has only been in the past few weeks, right at the end on winter, that sufficient rain has fallen to top them up.
"Through their participation in this program, schools across WA are playing a significant role in educating students about valuing, protecting and conserving our number one resource."
Dr Hames told students and staff at the assembly that he was impressed by the varied projects undertaken at the school to earn Waterwise recognition.
"Among them was a successful business venture by Year 6 students who retailed Water Corporation sports water bottles for a profit which went towards the school's sponsorship of a World Vision student," he said.
"This project was inspired by the students' awareness of the importance of drinking lots of water for a healthy body, which fits the theme of National Water Week: Water for Life."
The Waterwise activities at Lesmurdie involved the whole school and were based on the science, society and environment program.
Lesmurdie Primary is one of three schools achieving Waterwise recognition during National Water Week, bringing the total so far in WA to 24. About five more are expected to achieve recognition this year, while up to 60 schools are working towards it.
Dr Hames said it was not easy to achieve Waterwise recognition, and schools had to meet a number of criteria, including implementing a water education policy, taking part in water related curriculum activities at all education levels across subject areas, and encouraging students to educate their parents about Waterwise principles.
"It is also necessary for schools to take part in National Water Week," he said.
Schools interested in finding out more about the program can contact Roy Hallam at the Water Corporation, Perth, on (08) 9420 2681.
Media contacts: Caroline Lacy 9424 7450
Water Corporation: Phil Kneebone 9420 2420