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A staff member of The University of Western Australia with a passion for saving the planet, Jonathon Thwaites, has been recognised for his leadership and achievements in the WA Department of Environment and Conservation 2009 Environment Awards.

Mr Thwaites, of Cottesloe, has produced electricity from an exercise bike and created weather stations and wind turbines. A UWA Radiation and Safety Officer, he is a finalist in the ‘Community Achievement, Metropolitan' category.

His work includes organising the UWA-sponsored Sun Fair (2004 - 2009), biodiesel workshops (including related projects and giving advice and assistance), and many sustainable projects he has initiated or developed including solar powered applications such as pumps, car and train sets.

This year's Sun Fair, held on UWA's Oak Lawn, attracted more than 15,000 visitors (up seven per cent on the previous year) and stalls from 100 organisations.

Read more on the Sun Fair and sustainability activities .

Other finalists include St John of God Health Care; Birds Australia WA; Chittering Landcare Centre; Greening Australia, Alcoa Australia and the Harvey River Restoration Taskforce; Conservation Volunteers Australia; Alliance for a Clean Environment and Derby District High School.

Winners will be announced by the Department on 27 November.

Media references

Jonathon Thwaites (+61 8) 6488 7932 / (+61 4) 19 924 355
Janine MacDonald (UWA Public Affairs)  (+61 8) 6488 5563 / (+61 4) 32 637 716