Saltwater Sistas want help with rubbish clean-up

SALTWATER Sistas want the community to work with them to clean up what they see as a growing amount of rubbish in the area.

“There is so much rubbish building up across Coffs Harbour and Toormina, especially along our creeks, roadsides, and beaches,” said ‘Sista’, Rhiannon Mitchell.

“For a place we’re so lucky to call home, it’s really disappointing to see.”

She said Hogbin Drive, Toormina, in particular, had become heavily polluted, with plastic and household waste scattered through areas where wildlife lives.

She also identified the state of Toormina Skate Park as an issue.

“The reality is, our environment is struggling,” Ms Mitchell said.

“Plastic is ending up in our waterways, our oceans, and harming the wildlife that call this place home.

“That’s why we’re doing this clean-up. Not because it’s our mess,  but because we care.”

Ms Mitchell said a lot of the rubbish collected in the area was fast-food packaging, and with another fast-food behemoth being built nearby, it was predicted to increase.

“We’ll also be doing some eDNA testing in the creeks to see what wildlife is living here, so if you’ve ever wanted to get involved in real science, this is your chance,” Ms Mitchell said.

The Sistas regularly conduct community clean-ups and are asking community members to meet at Toormina Skate Park on Sunday, 28 June from 10am to 2pm.

Free snacks and cold water will be provided.

“I’ve also reached out to local businesses to get involved, so if you know anyone who’d like to support (even small things like water, snacks, or prizes), please share this with them,” Ms Mitchell said.

“Community support makes a big difference. I wish more people would care about the community and work together for a clean environment.”

More information can be found at saltwatersistas@gmail.com or on the Saltwater Sistas Facebook page.

By Andrew VIVIAN