Tangaroa Blue, Nature Conservation and residents join forces for annual beach clean-up day October 16

Sunday, October 16, is marked down as the day where residents of the Augusta-Margaret River shire can band together and help clean up the region’s beaches. In partnership with Tangaroa Blue, this year Nature Conservation Margaret River is co-ordinating the State’s annual Beach Clean-Up Day and asking the community to come out in force amid concerns about increasing levels of microplastics and waste sullying the region’s signature attractions. Nature Conservation’s Caring for Coast program co-ordinator Mandy Edwards said the annual event supported the environmental group’s ongoing commitment to protecting the coast and follows several successful coastal restoration projects including new brushing and plantings at key sites. “We are so grateful for the hundreds of volunteers that have contributed to our coastal projects and we’re hoping the clean-up day will be no exception,” she said. “We’re looking forward to getting a good crew of volunteer coastal warriors down at the stretch of beach between Sewers, Grunters and Long Reef, and ridding our beaches of rubbish.” Corporate partner Brewhouse Margaret River was also on board, hosting a shindig at the end of the day to help participants celebrate. Volunteers are asked to bring gloves, water, good shoes and sun protection to the Gas Bay carpark above Gnarabup for work starting at 10am. “This popular stretch of coast is a playground for surfers and beach-lovers alike,” Ms Edwards said. “We’re urging everyone to come to the clean-up, giving just a couple of hours of your time to show your appreciation for this much-loved coastline.” Tangaroa Blue’s Casey Woodward said the clean-up was also a priceless way to gather data reflecting beach waste trends for the Australian Marine Debris Initiative database. “This data provides the evidence required to incite real change,” she said. “The AMDI is the largest marine debris database in the southern hemisphere and has clocked over 21 million entries.” The data was used to identify rubbish hotspots and litter types, supporting lobbying efforts for improved marine and coastal protection and conservation. Gloves would be provided for those needing them and registrations to the 4pm celebration at Brewhouse were essential. To register, visit www.eventbrite.com.au/e/418341920947. Nature Conservation’s activities were supported by philanthropic partners from Line In The Sand started by Little Creatures founder Howard Cearns.