Local volunteers pledge to make Geraldton beautiful

Local volunteers Bob Taylor, Les Hollomby, Margaret Dawson and Lisa Bickley.

Local volunteers are dedicating their time to make Geraldton beautiful through the City of Greater Geraldton’s litter collection program.

Five local volunteers are rolling up their sleeves once a month to target litter problem areas in the community.

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn said he was blown away by the dedication of the volunteer group.

“This group have chosen to give up their time to make Geraldton an amazing and clean place to live,” he said.

“There aren’t many people who give up their own time on a weekend to pick up rubbish.

“I’d like to personally thank the group for what they’re doing and encourage locals to join the volunteer collection program.”

The volunteers meet on a Saturday at the start of every month and spend around three hours picking up rubbish in different areas.

The group began in April, cleaning up Separation Point and this month they cleaned up the stretch on Chapman Road near Rum Jungle.

Passionate local volunteer Lisa Bickley is leading the group and says she is inspired by her fellow volunteers and hopes the community will get on board.

“I personally have a desire to clean up the environment and I hope one day it is normal behaviour for the community to keep Geraldton clean as well,” she said.

“The land gives us everything and it’s about respect and giving back now to minimise later.

“It’s not a huge commitment and the feeling you get after cleaning up an area and then driving past it is just something you can’t replace.”

Lisa is joined by other volunteers including Bob Taylor who has been dedicated to picking up rubbish for 27 years.

The City provides volunteers with rubbish bags, gloves and pick up tools. The program is open to all people over the age of 10.

To sign up, head to the City’s website and fill out a volunteer form at https://www.cgg.wa.gov.au/live/my-community/volunteering.aspx

For more information on the program, contact the City on 9956 6600 or email council@cgg.wa.gov.au