About the Cassowary Awards

First held in 1999, the Wet Tropics Management Authority’s Cassowary Awards are the only awards program in Australia to recognise community contributions to World Heritage management. They celebrate the efforts of organisations and individuals who participate in conserving, protecting and raising awareness about the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area.

The Authority has long recognised that effective and successful caring of our Wet Tropics World Heritage Area is no easy or short-term task, and can't be done without the community. To this end, the Cassowary Awards seek to acknowledge the efforts of a diverse range of individuals, groups and organisations. Previous recipients have included stalwarts of the Wet Tropics community, as well as up and coming leaders. Conservation trailblazers, tourism innovators and cultural leaders have been recognised alongside philanthropists, farmers, artists, educators, scientists and students.

All award nominees share the same commitment—a passion for this special place and a desire to ensure its continued protection. For many, it’s a calling to which they have dedicated their lives.

Saying 'thank you'

The Cassowary Awards offer an exciting opportunity to learn more about community contributions to the wellbeing of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area and say 'thank you' to those on the front lines. Public awareness and appreciation of the work of done by award nominees inspires others to build on a growing legacy of generosity and commitment in the Wet Tropics.

The 20th Cassowary Awards will be held on Friday 6 September 2024 at Tjapukai NOW in Cairns. Download the mobile-friendly, digital program which includes the order of events, showcases the 45 nominees, and features the artists behind our exciting rebrand and bespoke trophies (to be unveiled at the event).

Award nominations across eight categories have now closed.

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