Holly and Charli Garrity, sisters aged 12 and 14, have time and again proven that one is never too young to help protect the environment. These young eco-warriors have been bestowed the ‘Young Change Maker of the Year’ award for their Sisters 4 Wildlife project that has since snowballed into other meaningful endeavours.
Sisters 4 Wildlife began four years ago, with the modest aim of raising $1,000 for the Wildlife Hospital by collecting cans and bottles that were then turned over to Containers for Change.
Fast forward to 2023 — the Garrity sisters have collected more than 52,000 cans and bottles and have raised over $20,000 for their cause. The duo has also launched a bi-annual Great Gap Fashion Swap, an initiative aimed at reducing fast fashion and textile waste.
The duo’s long-term goal is to collect 100,000 recyclable containers and further broaden the Great Gap Fashion Swap’s local reach. The combined funding will mostly support long-term activities, such as assisting wildlife rescue organisations such as Wildcare and Australian Seabird and Turtle Rescue.
Before their Young Change Maker of the Year recognition, Holly and Charli earned honours including the 2021 Brisbane Waste Smart Champion Highly Commended award. They secured a 2022 All-Star Award nomination for their role in initiating the Great Gap Fashion Swap. The pair were also finalists in the Visionary Wildlife Warriors of the Year in 2020 and 2021.
It is easy to see how the young duo has made such an impact in their local community that many were inspired to support their projects and other initiatives. And truly, environmental stewardship knows no age limits as shown in their commitment to tree planting, waterway restoration, and environmental rehabilitation in The Gap and organising Clean Up Australia Day locally.
As for their personal goals, Holly envisions herself pursuing a career as a paramedic or veterinarian after completing her college education. On the other hand, Charli’s dreams are centred around securing a position at the renowned Australia Zoo, reflecting her profound passion for wildlife and conservation.
Published 30-August-2023