Clean up Australia Day call to action

RESIDENTS across the Sunshine Coast are encouraged to roll up their sleeves and take part in Clean Up Australia Day on Sunday, March 2, to help preserve the region’s natural beauty.
From beaches to parks and urban areas, locals can join an existing clean-up event or organise their own. The annual initiative offers a chance to connect with the community, learn about local environmental issues, and make a tangible impact.
Several community groups are leading efforts this year, and there are a number of public clean-ups available to get involved in – including Matthew Flinders Park Rest Area Clean Up, 407 Steve Irwin Way, Beerburrum and The Great Obi Clean Up, 5 Coral St, Maleny
Participants must register online before attending and will be provided with gloves and bags for litter collection. Volunteers are encouraged to bring a hat, water bottle, and closed-in shoes.
Registration is free and ensures participants are covered under Clean Up Australia Day’s public liability insurance. To sign up, visit register.cleanup.org.au, select ‘Clean up events,’ and search for a local event using a postcode or suburb.
Sunshine Coast Council Environment and Liveability Portfolio holder Cr Maria Suarez said last year’s event saw 8,166 volunteers remove four tonnes of waste from 100 sites.
“Each year, we see incredible dedication from schools, businesses, and community groups,” Cr Suarez said.
“Council proudly supports the event through our Waste 2 Resource Education Program and ensures collected litter is properly managed.”
For more information on Clean Up Australia Day, visit cleanup.org.au/community.