General News
13 February, 2024
Litter concerns continue
PERSISTENT litter at the Warrnambool Breakwater has become a growing concern for locals and members of the Beach Patrol group.
Thirty-eight volunteers took to the sand last Sunday in a quest to remove as much litter as possible – and finished the day with an incredible 53.5kg of litter, which comprised more than 4500 items.
The impressive turnout reflects the community’s collective commitment to preserving the local environment.
However, the breakwater remains a significant litter hotspot and a continual source of ocean pollution.
Beach Patrol has run an annual clean-up event at the Breakwater since 2021 and has recorded all litter collected.
Disappointingly the amount of litter recorded has not decreased.
“One positive thing this year was there was no New Year’s Eve fireworks litter on the breakwater. In previous years fireworks litter has been an issue,” reflected organiser Genevieve Bale.
Despite ongoing efforts, the breakwater continues to pose challenges due to various factors.
Litter, including cigarette butts, fishing line, and food packaging, directly enters the ocean, posing environmental hazards.
The dredging of the breakwater’s ocean-floor in November 2022 highlighted the severity of the issue, unearthing 148kg of both recent and historical rubbish.
During the dredging event, volunteers recorded 30 clean-ups in Beach Patrol’s Litter Stopper App and database, collecting 5264 items, including 867 shredded cans.
The dredging issue brought attention to the need for sustained action, as the litter problem persisted despite previous clean-up initiatives.
The lack of bins and inadequate maintenance have been identified as contributing factors to the litter issue.
Despite efforts, the Container Deposit Scheme has not significantly reduced the number of beer stubbies and alcohol cans collected.
Cigarette butts and fishing line remain the most common litter items, with 2500 butts and 679 fishing line pieces collected during the recent clean-up.
Beach Patrol has consistently advocated for improved infrastructure along the breakwater, including more bins, recycle bins, fishing line bins, and anti-litter signage.
According to Beach Patrol leaders, the ongoing litter problem at the breakwater underscores the urgent need for proper infrastructure and signage to encourage responsible behaviour and curb littering habits.
Beach Patrol thanks all volunteers who participated in the clean-up and encourages the community’s continued support in addressing this environmental challenge.
Beach Patrol’s next community event is scheduled for Clean-up Australia Day on March 3, 2024, at the Thunder Point car park.
