Celebrating 35 Years of Clean Up Australia Day: A Nationwide Effort to Protect the Environment

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Clean Up Australia Day has become an integral part of the country's environmental protection efforts, with millions of volunteers participating in local clean-up events across the nation. This year marks the 35th anniversary of the initiative, which was started by builder and yachtsman Ian Kiernan in 1989. Kiernan's daughter, Pip, has taken over as chair of the non-profit organisation and has continued to promote the importance of community-led environmental protection. Over 22 million volunteers have joined the organisation since its inception, donating roughly 38 million hours of their time to clean up rubbish from local beaches, parks, and waterways.

The organisation has introduced various initiatives to encourage people to take environmental protection into their own hands, including providing resources such as gloves and rubbish bags. This sense of ownership and pride in taking care of local environments has been a key factor in the success of Clean Up Australia Day. Under Pip Kiernan's tenure, participation numbers have risen, with a record 4,405 schools taking part in 2024 and about a million volunteers participating throughout the year. The increase in participation is a testament to the community spirit and the desire to protect the environment for future generations.

One of the notable aspects of Clean Up Australia Day is the variety of items that are collected during the clean-up events. While the initial event in 1989 saw the collection of a Volkswagen car from the water, today's top-10 items of rubbish found include e-waste such as vapes. The change in the type of rubbish collected reflects the evolving nature of waste and the need for continued efforts to protect the environment. Clean Up Australia Day events will take place nationwide, with aspiring participants able to find a location and register online.

The success of Clean Up Australia Day can be attributed to the collective efforts of millions of volunteers who have participated in the initiative over the years. The organisation has also introduced awards for star volunteers, recognizing their contributions to environmental protection. The event has become a fixture in Australian culture, with many people making it a part of their annual routine. As the country continues to face environmental challenges, the importance of community-led initiatives like Clean Up Australia Day cannot be overstated.

For those looking to participate in Clean Up Australia Day, there are various events taking place across the country. Some of the community Clean Ups on the Sunshine Coast and Hinterland include: * Maleny – The Great Obi Clean Up * Glasshouse Mtns – Matthew Flinders Park Rest * Nambour – Footpath * Palmwoods – Girl Guide Hut Park area * Buderim – Girl Guides * Caloundra – Bulcock Beach * Golden Beach – Fraser Park * Little Mountain – Stockyard Park * Maroochydore Beach * Maroochydore – Sunrise Drive Park * Currimundi – Cliff Hargreaves Park These events are family-friendly, with gloves and rubbish bags provided, making it easy for people to get involved and make a difference in their local community.