Alex Parker (13J11) and Matthew Quot (13J5) have won the The Ros Nicholson Award for Native Ecology for their Enviroschools work in 2020. It is awarded to young people who have made outstanding contributions to native ecology conservation and management in the Howick Local Board area.
The award was established by the Nicholson family and the Howick Local Board as a tribute to Ros Nicholson. Ros was a passionate teacher and long-time resident who promoted the natural features and cultural history of the Howick and Pakuranga district. She encouraged young people in the community to appreciate, understand and respect conservation and heritage.
Ros was the chairman of the Tamaki Estuary Protection Society. Her vision was to encourage communities to develop initiatives to ensure the long-term stewardship of local areas. Ros’ belief was always that people working together can achieve greater things than those working on their own.
Alex and Matthew have had a substantial involvement in Enviroschools. They have taken part in the Moth Plant removal programme, rat trapping, tree planting, garden bird surveys, rubbish pick-ups and water testing for several years. As seniors, they are leaders of the Rat Trapping group, with Matthew also one of the overall Enviroschools leaders.
The award was presented by John Spiller Deputy Chairperson of the Howick Local Board and Mr Nicholson, at an Enviroschools event held at Farm Cove Intermediate.