Innovative Queenslanders who’ve found ways to stand strong against natural disasters are being asked to step forward and nominate for the Queensland Resilient Australia Awards 2015.

State Member for Morayfield, Mark Ryan MP, said the ideas and actions of these people and organisations can improve and preserve the lives of many other Queenslanders.

“It was only a couple of months ago that our community was struck with a sudden, devastating natural disaster and the resilience of locals was on proud display that day,” Mr Ryan said.

“Across the state, we’ve had a summer that has included tropical cyclones in North and Central Queensland, damaging storms and floods across the south east and devastating drought across 80 per cent of the state.

“Any initiative that can help reduce the structural, physical or emotional impact of natural disasters on our communities needs to not only be recognised by applauded.”

For the first time, primary and secondary schools can nominate for an award in their own category.

Nomination categories include: Non-Government Organisations; Private Sector and Business; Local and State Government; Primary and Secondary Schools; and a People’s Choice Award for Photography.

“Natural disasters are a fact of life in Queensland and the people who help make us stronger to face the worst, deserve our recognition and support,” Mr Ryan said.

Nominations close at midnight on 9 August 2015. For information can be found at www.dilgp.qld.gov.au/community/queensland-resilient-australia-awards-2015.html