October 29, 2010
East Gippslanders are being encouraged to help clean up the Gippsland Lakes with a Community Action Day in Lakes Entrance, Paynesville, Raymond Island and Metung on Sunday, November 7.
The action day will target rubbish removal from foreshore areas in a bid to improve the environment and encourage visitors to the region to look after the lakes.
“It’s a chance for everyone to show their support for the lakes by taking direct action to remove rubbish,” according to Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester.
“We can all do our bit to protect the lakes for future generations to enjoy and demonstrate to governments that we want more action to look after the entire catchment.”
Mr Chester has organised the Community Action Day with The Nationals Candidate for Gippsland East Tim Bull and State Upper House MP Peter Hall.
“I’ve fished and been boating on the lakes all of my life and I’m keen to protect them so my children get to enjoy the same opportunity in the future,” Mr Bull said.
“Instead of waiting for governments to allocate enough funding for practical environmental projects throughout the lakes catchment, we’re taking action.”
Local firm Tambo Waste is providing waste bins at three sites in Lakes Entrance, Metung and Paynesville while Esso Australia has donated gloves for volunteers to use.
Participants in the Community Action Day are asked to register at the rotunda in Lakes Entrance at 9am on November 7; 11am at the Metung back beach jetty; or 2pm at the Rotary Park in Paynesville to be allocated a clean up site.
Gloves and rubbish bags will be provided and volunteers are urged to wear protective footwear. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
Further details are available on Mr Chester’s website www.darrenchester.com