Eco Barge Services a finalist in State Award

 One of the Whitsundays' own is in the running to take home a Queensland-wide award.

 Libby Edge, director of Eco Barge Services is one of just three finalists in the Peabody Environment and Landcare Award, through the state-wide Regional Achievement and Community Awards.

 Upon hearing the news, Libby said she was lost for words, though she has put the achievement down to a combined effort.

 Although this is an individual award, by no means would I have this opportunity without the support from my precious sponsors, the 200 volunteers who have donned the gloves to help collect marine debris from our coastline, and the support from my husband and kids," Libby said.

 "I really want to thank the community for embracing our Marine Debris Removal Program. We are hoping this award will help promote our program and help us find the funding our program needs to continue protecting our islands and marine life from the threats of marine debris."

 Eco Barge was launched in 2009 and since then, Libby and the passionate volunteers have been working wonders to minimise the threat of marine debris to the local environment.

 So far, more than 55,000 kilograms of debris has been removed from local waterways and islands over the few years.

 The service also hopes to be involved in implementing training programs and initiatives about rubbish disposal and safe environmental practices in local schools in the near future.

 "This (award) means exposure Queensland-wide to show the wonderful work of the program in helping the environment in the Whitsundays," Libby said.

 Libby will attend the Gala Dinner in Brisbane on November 12, where the winner of the Peabody Environment and Landcare Award will be announced.