Tangaroa Blue Leads Successful Lynch’s Beach, Alva Community Clean-up

Tangaroa Blue, in collaboration with the Gudjuda Reference Group, James Cook University Women in Science Society, and Burdekin Shire Council, organised and led a highly productive community clean-up event at Lynch’s Beach, Alva.

The primary objective of the initiative was to remove marine debris from the coastline while also gathering valuable data for the Australian Marine Debris Initiative database.

Marine debris poses significant threats to the environment, economy, wildlife, and human health and safety.

Tangaroa Blue, a leading organisation dedicated to the preservation of marine ecosystems, actively works to mitigate these impacts through community engagement and data-driven initiatives.

During the Beach Community Clean-up, a total of 94.80 kg of marine debris was collected, consisting of 2,237 individual items with 13 dedicated volunteers generously offering their time and assistance to help make this event a success.

Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Lyn McLaughlin expressed her gratitude to the organisers and volunteers that made the community clean-up such a success.

“I commend Tangaroa Blue, the Gudjuda Reference Group, James Cook University Women in Science Society, and all the volunteers for their dedication in organising and participating in the Community Clean-up, said Cr McLaughlin.

“By working together, we are taking meaningful steps to protect our coastal environment and raise awareness about the importance of responsible waste management."

The most commonly found items during the clean-up were hard plastic remnants, with a staggering count of 1,378 pieces. Some interesting and unexpected discoveries were also made, including an (almost) brand new pair of work boots, a hard hat, and a little toy dinosaur head.

The collected data will be carefully documented and added to the Australian Marine Debris Initiative database, providing valuable insights into the types and quantities of marine debris affecting Lynch’s Beach.

This information will enable researchers, policymakers, and community members to better understand and address the issue, ultimately working towards a cleaner and healthier marine environment.

For more information about Tangaroa Blue and their ongoing efforts to combat marine debris, please visit their website https://www.tangaroablue.org/.