Sunshine Coast Biosphere celebrates its sustainability champions
Mapleton conservationists Ian Webster and Di Lanskey have been recognised among the Sunshine Coast’s leading sustainability champions after winning the Healthy Planet category at the 2026 Sunshine Coast Biosphere Awards.
The pair were honoured for years of hands-on environmental work on their property, including planting more than 38,000 native trees to restore habitat, protect the natural environment and encourage others to take practical action.
They were among a field of community leaders, businesses, educators and young changemakers celebrated at the awards ceremony on June 26, which highlighted people helping build a more sustainable and resilient Sunshine Coast.
Mayor and Sunshine Coast Biosphere Coordinating Committee chair Rosanna Natoli said the winners reflected the passion and ingenuity of our Sunshine Coast Biosphere community.
“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,” Mayor Natoli 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.”
2026 Biosphere Award winners
Biosphere Ambassador – sponsored by Channel 7
Fien Van den Steen
Fien 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, Fien 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
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, Kerry 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 and planting more than 38,000 native trees, Ian and Di 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, Kerry educates and empowers participants to take an active role in caring for Country, fostering long-term environmental stewardship.
