THE 3199 Frankston Beach Patrol is embarking on a “same but different” challenge on Clean Up Australia Day – Sunday 6 March 2016.
The group’s manager, John Billing, said members would clean up around the base of Oliver’s Hill with a focus on the rocks that collect and hold litter washed down drains. The litter makes its way into the bay via the storm water drains and the currents and waves do the rest, bringing it on to beaches.
“We are looking for people to register and join us,” Mr Billing said.
“As well as the rocks, we will also clean up the car park and beach towards the pier if we can get enough people. Both areas are covered as part of our regular beach clean ups.
“We’re also hoping the attention that Clean Up Australia Day brings will help to raise greater awareness among local residents and make them more litter conscious.”
Last year the group removed 35kg of litter as well as almost 2000 cigarette butts from the area – something Mr Billing said “is simply unacceptable”.
“More than eight million tonnes of plastic are being dumped in the world’s oceans every year,” he said.
“We may have the most popular beach in the state as well as the title of Australia’s Sustainable City of the Year in 2015, but we shouldn’t become complacent.
“Litter is not just unsightly; we’ve all seen the images of how litter impacts on marine wildlife, such as single use plastic bags and fishing line. There’s just no reasonable explanation for littering to still be happening in this day and age.
“Banding together to support such events as Clean Up Australia Day is just one way we can engage to make a positive change that benefits everyone: residents and visitors.”
Register at cleanupaustraliaday.org.au and search for “Olivers Hill Rocks” or visit 3199 Frankston Beach Patrol on Facebook or Twitter.