The Strand - Australia's Cleanest Beach 2008

The Strand has been named as the national winner of the Keep Australia Beautiful Clean Beaches Awards for 2008.

According to the Australian Clean Beaches Judge, Chris Tola, "The Strand exhibits everything an overall winning beach should. There is excellent commitment by the Council, working together with local community and business".

“The Strand’s infrastructure ensures every aspect of this beach, from the catchment to the reef, is in the best condition possible. The dedication to ensuring an enjoyable seaside experience for locals and visitors alike, is coupled with an enthusiastic and active commitment to Townsville's environment. There is a strong desire to exhibit best practice innovation, through the use of simple technologies and fantastic educational techniques,” Tola said.

Congratulating Townsville on their win, Prime Minister, The Hon Kevin Rudd MP, said, “I would like to congratulate Townsville on winning the 2008 Australian Clean Beaches award for The Strand. This award is a testament to the success of the local government and the community in working together to achieve environmental, educational and cultural outcomes for residents and visitors. This is a fantastic achievement resulting in a welcoming beach environment which can be enjoyed by all.”

Queensland Premier, Anna Bligh, said the Strand is a "must stop" spot for locals and visitors to Townsville and North Queensland.

"It is the North's welcoming front door and, as a result of the State and Townsville Council's support, it has been transformed into a magnificent community venue. Well done Townsville! You have done yourselves and all of Queensland proud," Ms Bligh added.

Townsville local, Olympic Beach Volley Ball player, Natalie Cook, is a Clean Beaches Ambassador. Hearing of their win she said, “It’s wonderful that Townsville is being recognised with the national clean beaches award. Growing up in Townsville it is great to see the local community is helping to protect and enhance the local environment for future generations. The Strand has been a big part of my life and I’m proud local efforts are helping to preserve it for future generations to enjoy.”

Townsville’s The Strand also picked up the two category Awards for Protection of the Environment and Environmental Innovation Water, and was highly commended in the three categories of Heritage and Culture, Environmental Innovation, and Litter Prevention.

Cr Vern Veitch accepting the award on behalf of the Townsville City Council said, “This is a great honour for our community and will be another positive step in positioning our city as a place to do business and holiday in paradise".