State Member for Pine Rivers, Carolyn Male MP said that nominations are now open for the Queensland Water-Wise Garden Awards.

Carolyn Male MP said the nominations were now open to all of Queensland’s social housing tenants, who have until September 2010 to enter.

“It doesn’t matter what size or type of garden you have, whether it’s a balcony, patio, flower or vegetable garden,” Carolyn Male MP said.

“Gardening is a great activity and these awards go to show that everyone can get involved.”

“Just like any other residents, public housing tenants take pride in their homes.”

“It’s part of our Tenant Participation program and it’s one of the ways our own tenants are helping to challenge ideas about social housing in the community.”

Carolyn Male MP said the program involved 230 local tenant groups and 16 regional tenant groups across Queensland.

“Right now, we’re asking our tenants to put forward ideas for how we can make the program even better,” Carolyn Male MP said.

“We’re looking at ways of getting more tenants involved in the program and more active in the community.”

“For example, the edible garden category encourages healthy lifestyles and supports the Bligh Government’s Q2 target of making Queenslanders Australia’s healthiest people.”

The awards are judged on effort and creativity and how the garden promotes water-wise principles. A brochure and entry form will soon be posted to all social housing tenants.

Entries must be submitted by Wednesday, 1 September 2010.