From groups who have come together to save koalas to locals trying to keep unwanted clothing out of landfill - there are plenty of amazing people in the region worthy of recognition.
The Newcastle Herald has brought readers tales of great environmental initiative throughout the year, and now we're calling on them to vote for their favourite for the 2020 Hunter Hero award, presented by the Newcastle Herald and Hunter Water.
Voting opens today on the Newcastle Herald website and will close on Friday, Dec 11. The top five nominees will then be forwarded to Hunter Water, who will decide the winner.
The Hunter Hero column, which appears each Monday, has taken on an environmental theme this year - highlighting people in the community who are working to protect and conserve the natural world we live in.
Among those featured include Landcare groups, schools and recycling organisations all doing their bit to help the environment.
VOTE NOW:
March
- Darby Street Community Garden
- Aimee Freeman
- Hunter water and council staff
- Judith Hopper
- Sheona Malcolm-Green and Jasmine Flamenco
April
May
June
July
August
- Surfest
-
Cathy Stuart and Jan Williams
- Steve Dewar
- Central Rankin Park Landcare
- Katrina Piper and Maryanne Murray
September
October
-
Peter Dalton and Gabrielle Stacey
- Kurri Kurri Preschool
- Save Port Stephens Koalas
- Take 3 for the Sea
