This year’s Clean Up Australia Day in Greater Shepparton is unlike any other before.
RiverConnect has announced that in addition to hosting a single-day celebration of the annual event, they’re encouraging residents to organise their own Clean Up event on a date that suits them.
“At any time of the year, it can make a huge difference,” RiverConnect project officer Alison White said.
Since 1990, the national initiative has aimed to tidy up through volunteer efforts, inspiring communities to improve and conserve the environment, eliminate litter and end waste.
Whether registering as an individual, community group, business or school, all volunteers will receive a free Clean Up kit containing bags, gloves, information and promotional material if registered at least two weeks prior to their chosen date.
When it comes to choosing locations, Ms White recommends prioritising parks, bushlands and riverbanks, particularly those surrounding Shepparton’s rivers and lakes.
“Something that people don’t always realise is where the litter goes when it washes into stormwater drains,” she said.
“Gross pollutant traps aim to collect all of the rubbish, however sometimes it gets through and it’s then released into our local water bodies.
“This means that litter dropped in the Shepparton CBD could end up in a river or lake, and wildlife may mistake it for food.
“That is why the community’s Clean Up efforts are so important for our region.”
To register, visit https://register.cleanup.org.au/ or contact RiverConnect at 58329714 or riverconnect@shepparton.vic.gov.au
Registered volunteers will be covered by Clean Up Australia’s public liability insurance.
Clean Up Australia Day 2024 dates
For those unable to decide on a date themselves, there are three designated dates for Clean Ups:
Business Clean Up Day - Tuesday, February 27
Schools Clean Up Day - Friday, March, 1
Clean Up Australia Day - Sunday, March 3