School Captain Eva inspires school movement to keep oceans clean

A PROMISE made during a school leadership campaign has grown into an environmental movement at Tomaree Public School. 

In 2025, Eva Wilson pledged that if elected school captain, she would launch a student-led initiative called the Litter Ninjas.

True to her word, she spent the school holidays working to earn money to fund the project herself, designing and purchasing special Litter Ninja badges that members now wear with pride.

Each week, Eva organises rotating groups of students who take on the role of Litter Ninjas, collecting rubbish around the school grounds to help prevent it from reaching local waterways and, ultimately, the ocean.

Her inspiration came from a personal connection.

“My brother loves sea animals and told me that green turtles were recently removed from the endangered species list,” Eva said.

“I thought this was a great opportunity for the Litter Ninjas to help. By reducing rubbish in the ocean, we can support endangered animals and improve the environment.”

She believes every small action counts.

“Every piece of litter picked up and disposed of correctly helps,” she said.

Eva has been overwhelmed by the response.

“When I gave my leadership speech in 2025, I didn’t expect many to volunteer.

“But so many students have joined, from all across the school, and are eager to make a difference.”

To strengthen the mission, students are encouraged to wear their badges proudly, volunteer regularly and make sure rubbish ends up in bins rather than in nature.

Plans are also underway to create posters for every classroom, reminding students to stay committed to protecting the planet.

What began as one captain’s campaign promise has become a powerful example of student leadership in action, proving that even small hands can make a big environmental impact.

By Jacie WHITFIELD