Young people aged up to 17 who are involved in conservation projects at home, at school or anywhere else in their local community are invited to submit an essay of 200–500 words, or a 60-second video, that demonstrates their creativity and passion for conservation, wildlife and the environment.

‘It’s so important for young people to be involved in conservation projects because essentially, conservation starts and finishes with us, the next generation is key to a brighter, balanced future for wildlife and people,’ said Wildlife Warrior Bindi Irwin.

The Visionary Wildlife Warrior Award will be presented at the prestigious annual Steve Irwin Gala Dinner in Brisbane on 21 November. Submissions close on 10 October.

Visit the Wildlife Warriors website for further information. 

The film, directed by award-winning filmmaker Phillip Crawford, features the interwoven stories of six young people that show the risk-taking, disappointment, joys and love that are part of growing up.

Rites of Passage was filmed over three years by the community arts organisation Beyond Empathy (BE), and is based on the real-life experiences of the young participants.

Visit the Rites of Passage website for further information about the film. The website includes study guides for using the film as an educational tool for students in years 10–12. The film screens on ABC TV at 10.30pm on Sunday 28 June.