Coordinated by the Department of Industry and Resources, the Golden Gecko Awards for Environmental Excellence recognise advances and innovations in environmental practice in the minerals and petroleum industries.

The awards recognise and encourage continuous improvement throughout the industry, and the efforts made to develop and maintain community confidence in the compatibility of mining and environmental management.

Department of Industry and Resources Acting Director General Noel Ashcroft said the Golden Gecko Awards highlight the contribution made by individuals and companies towards environmental conservation and rehabilitation.

"The awards, considered by industry as the highest accolade of its kind in the State, acknowledge the recipient's ability to balance successful resources development with sound environmental practices," Ashcroft said.

"This is the last chance to get nominations in and demonstrate to the West Australian public that the resources sector is proactively meeting the challenges presented by a society with high expectations in environmental management."

The high calibre of nominations received in 2003, resulted in Golden Geckos being awarded to Apache Energy Limited, Beenup Consultative Group and Barrick Gold of Australia, with Certificates of Merit awarded to Wesfarmers Premier Coal, Robe River Iron Associates, Woodside Energy Limited and Barrick Gold of Australia.

For more information about how to nominate for the 2004 Golden Gecko Awards telephone Danielle Risbey on 9021 9406, or download a nomination form from the Department of Industry and Resources' website at: http://www.doir.wa.gov.au/GGAwebsite2003/images/nominationform04.pdf