Lake Macquarie locals urged to register Clean Up Australia Day sites ahead of 1 March event

newy.com.au – Lake Macquarie City Council has urged residents, schools, businesses and community groups to register a Clean Up Australia Day site ahead of the event on Sunday 1 March.

Council said Clean Up Australia Day was one of the country’s biggest community environmental events, with local organisers hoping to build on last year’s turnout and rubbish collected across the city.

Lake Macquarie Mayor Adam Shultz said the annual clean-up drew strong support from across the community. “Clean Up Australia Day is one of those events where our community really shows its heart,” he said.

“The efforts of volunteers – young people, families, clubs, schools and businesses – make a genuine difference to our city,” Shultz stated, encouraging locals to volunteer individually, join an existing group or register a new site.

He said people could take part in a range of locations and activities. “Whether you’re paddling along the lake, walking a favourite track or cleaning up your local park, your contribution matters. I encourage everyone to be part of this important, citywide effort,” he said.

In 2025, thousands of volunteers worked at around 100 sites across Lake Macquarie, removing more than five tonnes of rubbish, the council said, with expectations of an even bigger effort this year.

Among groups already registered is Showtime Kayaking, which is hosting a “Paddle Against Plastic” community clean-up at Naru Beach.

Showtime Operations Manager Elena Babazogli said the idea grew from rubbish encountered on daily tours. “We run our nighttime tours there, so we see how clear the water is and how much marine life is out there,” she said.

“Protecting Naru Beach isn’t just about preserving its beauty, it’s about looking after a place that gives so much back to us,” Babazogli said, urging people to see litter collection as part of everyday habits and not limited to a single day.

People can register a site or find a clean-up near them at cleanup.org.au.