Social wheelchair basketball, a permaculture garden and football bootcamps are among the many initiatives vying for the state’s inaugural Healthy Queensland Awards said Carolyn Male MP, Government Whip and Labor Candidate for Pine Rivers.

Carolyn Male MP is reminding Queenslanders that entries close on 27 March 2009.

“The Awards offer prize money of up to $1 million for communities, $500 000 for schools and $100 000 for workplaces used towards “healthy” infrastructure,” said Carolyn Male MP.

“I urge communities, schools and workplaces to become involved, and even compete with other similar groups. A bit of healthy competition will then create some real momentum to keep the program going and keep Queenslanders healthy!”

“Nearly 150 community groups, schools and workplaces have already indicated an interest in entering the Awards.”

“The Awards set out to motivate, celebrate and reward communities, schools and workplaces for helping Queenslanders live healthier lives.”

“One of the key ambitions of the Bligh Government is making Queenslanders Australia’s healthiest people.”

For more information, entry forms and guidelines, visit www.thepremier.qld.gov.au/initiatives/healthy_awards/index.aspx or www.keepaustraliabeautiful.org.au/qld.