Community programs, innovative businesses and changemakers have been recognised at the 2026 Sunshine Coast Biosphere Awards.
Sunshine Coast Mayor and Sunshine Coast Biosphere Coordinating Committee chair Rosanna Natoli congratulated the winners, who have helped to create a more sustainable region, at a ceremony on Friday.
“People are at the heart of our biosphere, and these awards celebrate those leading the way, helping shape a brighter future for the Sunshine Coast,” she said.
“These winners are taking action: protecting our environment, strengthening our community and inspiring others to get involved. On behalf of council and the Biosphere Coordinating Committee, I congratulate all our winners and finalists.”
Mayor Natoli said the awards were about more than recognition.
“These stories matter. They show what can be achieved when people come together and take action. That’s what makes our Sunshine Coast Biosphere unique,” she said.
The Sunshine Coast Biosphere is designated as part of UNESCO’s World Network of Biosphere Reserves, recognising the region’s commitment to environmental stewardship, sustainable development and thriving communities.
2026 Biosphere Award winners
- Biosphere Ambassador (sponsored by Channel 7) – Fien Van den Steen: Ms Van den Steen is a passionate advocate for the biosphere, helping drive change across the region from local to global. As co-founder of the Upskilling Sustainability initiative, she inspires students, professionals and community to take action for a sustainable future.
- Community Connection (sponsored by My Weekly Preview and Sunshine Coast News) – Connect Rugby League and The Lavender Sky Foundation: This partnership is delivering initiatives that build stronger, more inclusive communities, including the barrier-breaking sporting Inclusion Day. Their work is creating lasting connections and giving more people the chance to feel supported and involved through sport.
- Rising Biosphere Star (sponsored by Mix FM and Sea FM) – Taylor Ladd-Hudson: Ms Ladd-Hudson Taylor is inspiring the next generation to care for our environment, engaging thousands of young people in ocean conservation, wildlife protection and hands-on action.
- Biosphere Business (sponsored by Unitywater) – Waste Free Systems: With a practical, on-the-ground approach, Waste Free Systems is helping businesses dramatically cut waste, diverting more than 78,000 kilograms from landfill and showing what’s possible when sustainability is built into everyday operations.
- Knowledge Innovator (sponsored by University of the Sunshine Coast) – Kerry Neill/TribalLink: Through sharing cultural knowledge and immersive, hands-on learning, Mr Neill has engaged thousands of participants, helping people connect more deeply with Country, building understanding, skills and respect that last well beyond the classroom.
- Healthy Planet (sponsored by Australia Zoo) – Ian Webster and Di Lanskey: Through dedicated on-ground work, Mr Webster and Ms Lanskey are restoring habitats and protecting the natural environment on their property, while sharing their knowledge to inspire others to do the same.
- Froggie Award (supported by Sunshine Coast Environment Council) – Kerry Neill/TribalLink: Recognised for outstanding environmental contribution, Mr Neil’s work stands out for its long-term impact and ability to connect people, culture and environment.
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