On Clean Up Australia Day, volunteers gathered at Ewen Park to take part in an important environmental effort focused on one of the region’s most valuable ecosystems: the mangroves. These coastal habitats, vital for local biodiversity and play a crucial role in protecting waterways like the Cooks River.
The event, led by Streamwatch and the Cooks River Alliance, drew a passionate crowd of local residents, students, and families eager to make a difference. Armed with gloves and bags, the volunteers set to work clearing litter and debris from the mangrove areas, which had become overrun with plastic waste and other pollutants.
Mangroves are unique ecosystems that provide important services to the environment. They act as natural filters, trapping pollutants from stormwater runoff before they can reach the water. This helps maintain water quality and supports the thriving wildlife that depends on the river’s health. Additionally, mangrove roots stabilize the riverbank, reducing erosion and protecting coastal areas from storm surges.
However, like many urban green spaces, mangroves around the Cooks River are vulnerable to human activity. The accumulation of plastic waste and other rubbish poses a serious threat to these delicate environments. During the cleanup, volunteers noticed the impact of pollution on the mangrove roots, with plastic waste entangled in the trees and debris clogging up the mudflats.
By the end of the day, the volunteers had removed dozens of bags of rubbish, and the mangrove area was visibly cleaner and healthier. This included over 400 bottle caps, 361 pieces of polystyrene and 800 pieces of soft plastic food waste. Local residents and participants were left with a deep sense of accomplishment, knowing that their efforts were helping to preserve the natural beauty of the river and its surrounding environment.
If you are interested in participating in another clean up event you can look at our upcoming events on Eventbrite or organise your own clean up event with Clean Up Australia Day.
