Year 11 student Josh Gilbert also won the media award.

The Bulahdelah youth challenge team participated in the upgrade of plans for a riverside park, discussing with council and the Roads and Traffic Authority about incorporating eco friendly toilets, barbecues and solar lighting while taking into account the waterways and local flora and fauna.

“The students also undertook a tree planting exercise, investigated water tanks and solar panels for the school, raised money for a number of local causes and continued helping out with the school’s brekky and social clubs,” Red Cross executive director Lewis Kaplan said.

Josh was awarded the media award through his promotion of the challenge through a range of media including television, radio, school newsletters and public speaking events.

The state awards were held in Sydney last week.

In its fifth year the program involves students working on a local community project with guidance from a mentor.

“These awards recognise the efforts that young people made in making a difference to the local and global community,” Mr Kaplan said.

Taking part in the challenge gives students a chance to contribute to their local communities and develop practical project management skills.