More than 35 community members rolled up their sleeves to help protect a vital local waterway at Kingborough Council’s Clean Up Australia Day event along Whitewater Creek in Kingston.
Mayor Paula Wriedt said the event was a collaborative effort between Kingborough Council and Whitewater Creek Landcare Group, delivered under the Clean Up Australia Day initiative.
“Volunteers worked along a 1.5km stretch of the creek and removed 170 kilograms of general rubbish, as well as larger items including tyres and bikes, from the surrounding environment,” Cr Wriedt said.
“While a significant amount of rubbish was collected, many participants noted that Whitewater Creek appeared cleaner than in previous years, reflecting the positive impact of ongoing stewardship and community awareness.
“The Clean Up Australia Day event highlights Kingborough’s strong community commitment to caring for our local natural areas.
“Throughout the morning, some walkers on the track stopped to chat with volunteers, sparking conversations about the threat litter poses to wildlife, as well as the positive community benefits gained with the connection between Spring Farm and central Kingston.
“Whitewater Creek is an important wildlife habitat, with several platypus known to live along this stretch of the waterway.
“One of the biggest challenges for platypus in urban creeks is becoming entangled or ingesting litter.
“You can help by securing your wheelie bin lid with a bin latch, that way if the bin is blown over, rubbish doesn’t enter the roadside drains and end up in the creek.
“The native vegetation lining the creek also plays a crucial role in improving water quality, filtering runoff before it flows into the Derwent River at Kingston Beach.
“Thank you to everyone who took part and helped make the day a success.” Cr Wriedt said.
Safewaste Bin Latches are available to purchase for $10 from the Barretta Waste & Recycling Centre Re-Use Shop at 1922 Channel Highway, Barretta and at the Civic Centre, 15 Channel Highway, Kingston.
