Registrations open for the first Great Northern Clean Up

Media Release - 4 August 2009

A special Clean Up Day for northern Australia will take place over the weekend of the 3rd and 4th of October.

Registrations are now open for the inaugural Great Northern Clean Up, which has been established to take advantage of the dry season and help tackle important waste issues, such as the impact of plastics on the coast and the marine environment.

To register a Great Northern Clean Up site or to volunteer go to www.cleanup.org.au or freecall 1800 CUA DAY (1800 282 329).

Clean Up Australia’s chairman Ian Kiernan AO said people living in northern Australia have always been enthusiastic about Clean Up Australia Day but have not been able to take part in large numbers because of the weather.

“The community of northern Australia has told us that March is far too hot and wet for people to be able to achieve much on Clean Up Australia Day. So we’ve created the Great Northern Clean Up – something for the people of northern Australia to call their own,” Mr Kiernan said.

“The community told us that October is the best time to conduct a clean up in the north – before the cyclone season and just after the bulk of tourists have headed south again.”

Mr Kiernan encouraged people to demonstrate just how much they care for the unique environment of northern Australia and register for the Great Northern Clean Up.

“In northern Australia, the reasons to get out and help clean up the local area are increased. Not only are there the obvious environmental benefits of a clean up, but it also decreases the risk of rubbish becoming a hazard during a cyclone and severe storms.

“With cyclone season fast approaching, it’s important we all take measures to secure around our homes and the Great Northern Clean Up is the prefect time to get started.  

“Northern Australia residents have always been great supporters of Clean Up Australia Day, even despite the heat at that time of year, so we’re hopeful with the elements on our side, the Great Northern Clean Up in October will be even more successful.”

For further information: Paul Sheridan, 0410 516 656