- Wet Tropics Management
- Legislative framework
- Management partnerships
- Sustainable Tourism Plan
- Threats to the Area
- Research and a Learning Landscape
- How can I help?
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 were held on Friday 6 September 2024 at Tjapukai NOW in Cairns. From grass-roots community volunteers to wildlife-championing-train-driving tourism operators who traverse and share the breathtaking World Heritage Area with visitors daily it was certainly a colourful mix of candidates captured in this edition’s 45 nominations across 8 categories, download the mobile-friendly, digital program to learn more about the nominees and view the award recipients here.
More information:
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