Brisbane’s thriving leisure precinct has made a winning splash at the Premier’s Sustainability Awards.

Premier Campbell Newman and Environment Minister Andrew Powell congratulated Business South Bank which received the 2013 Community Award at a ceremony in Brisbane last night.

Mr Newman said Business South Bank had been leading the way in sustainability for many years.

“Business South Bank represents some of our city’s most vibrant retail and entertainment outlets,” Mr Newman said.

“Their approach to sustainability recognises the environment is an integral part of our lifestyle and economy.”

Minister for Environment and Heritage Protection Andrew Powell said Business South Bank had commissioned the first precinct-wide sustainability audit in 2008.

“Since then they had established an annual award for its members to put recycling, water management and other sustainability issues front and centre of everyday business,” he said.

“Together, these businesses have achieved significant savings in energy and potable water use and are streets ahead in public transport usage and waste management.”

Mr Powell said competition for this year’s awards had been tough, with almost 150 nominations from community groups, schools, industry and business.

“The overwhelming response to these awards is a strong sign that Queenslanders are committed to environmental management,” he said.

“All the finalists should be very proud of their achievement, having beaten a top quality field to make the list.”

More information and a complete list of the 2013 awards finalists are available at www.ehp.qld.gov.au

A full list of winners is below:

Premier’s Award – Professor Paul Meredith

Minister’s Award for Leadership – Bundaberg Regional Council

Small Business Award – Daintree Discovery Centre

Rural Award – Vince and Rita Papale

Innovation in Sustainable Technologies Award – B-Pods Holdings Pty Ltd

Business Eco-Efficiency Award – AJ Bush & Sons (Manufacturers) Pty Ltd

Community Award – Business South Bank

Built Environment Award – Global Green Tag Pty Ltd

School Award – Bulimba State School