Clean, healthy waterways are vital to everyone because they support thriving communities, ecosystems and economies. It’s why we teamed up with Heyfield Adventure Hub and Maffra and Districts Landcare Network to support a community clean up event at Lake Glenmaggie.
The event took place on Sunday 22 February as part of the national Clean Up Australia Day campaign and saw local volunteers out in force with gloves, hats and rubbish bags collecting general waste and recyclables.
We caught up with Estelle Kayler-Thomson, the Heyfield Adventure Hub Coordinator, at the popular Sandy Point Picnic Area to talk about why this event is important to the volunteers and the broader community.
Tell us about Heyfield Adventure Hub’s involvement and your role?
The Heyfield Adventure Hub delivered their first Clean Up Australia Day event at Lake Glenmaggie.
I plan and manage nature-based and adventure activities that highlight the unique local assets of Heyfield and the surrounding districts. I also work with local businesses and organisations to develop initiatives that promote tourism and encourage visitors to experience the region.
Why is looking after waterways so important for communities, the local economy, and the environment?
Waterways are important ecosystems that provide critical habitat for aquatic flora and fauna with biodiversity being a key indicator of waterway health. Places like Lake Glenmaggie support local communities through farming irrigation, drinking water supply and even bushfire management. It’s also a major attraction for tourism and recreation which supports the local economy, so keeping waterways clean and healthy is vital to community and economic wellbeing.
Tell us about the Clean Up Australia campaign and what it means to you and the volunteers who get involved.
Clean Up Australia Day is a fantastic initiative that empowers communities to protect their local environment and reduce waste. As someone who loves nature and spending time outdoors, I feel strongly about playing a role in protecting our natural assets. They’re vital to our wellbeing and the ecosystems that depend on them.
Why was Lake Glenmaggie chosen for this year’s clean-up?
We chose Lake Glenmaggie because it’s a popular spot for recreational activities, and we wanted to give back to a place so many people know and love. At the Heyfield Adventure Hub, we promote environmental reciprocity and advocate for the sustainable use of special places like this.
What small actions can people take to protect waterways year-round?
One of the simplest things people can do is take their rubbish home and dispose of it properly. If you see litter while you’re out, take a moment to pick it up. Small actions like that can influence others and help build a culture of care and responsibility.
What type of rubbish are you most surprised to see collected?
I’m surprised to see nappies and vapes as both are incredibly harmful to the environment. Vapes are electronic waste and contain toxic substances, posing a serious threat to waterways, wildlife and even community drinking water.
What does it mean to see the community come together like this?
It’s inspiring to see our community come together to make a real difference for the environment. It’s also a wonderful opportunity to connect with like-minded people who are passionate about giving back to their community.
Why should more people get involved next year?
It’s a welcoming and community-focused event open to anyone willing to get involved.
At the Heyfield Adventure Hub, we’re passionate about strengthening our community and supporting local businesses by attracting visitors to the area. When we care for our natural assets, we give people a reason to return and something they can feel proud to be part of.
This year’s clean-up event is a powerful reminder that even a couple hours of our time can make a difference. When people come together and contribute what they can, those small efforts quickly add up. The result is healthier waterways that everyone can enjoy.