EcoSurf

Surf Life Savers on the Sunshine Coast are not only saving lives, but are volunteering to rescue their beaches and local marine life as part of a Do the Right Thing, Use the Right Bin trial recycling campaign.

The recycling trial, funded by EcoSurf, the Sunshine Coast Regional Council and AFGC's Packaging Stewardship Forum, has seen the rollout of new recycling bins, clear bin signage and education programs to two selected surf life saving clubs along the Sunshine Coast Branch. Mudjimba (Maroochy North Shore) and Dicky Beach, Caloundra have been selected to participate in the trial, which has a strong focus on engaging young patrol members in becoming ambassadors for beach recycling.

Don Parry, EcoSurf Coordinator and member of the Mudjimba Surf Life Saving Club founded the recycling campaign and is driving its implementation.

"The aim of this project is to use the trials as a basis for the full implementation of recycling to all 15 Surf Clubs along the Sunshine Coast Branch - that's from Bribie Island to Rainbow Beach," Mr Parry said.

"Surf Life Saving Clubs are one of the major guardians of our beaches. Whilst local authorities locate litter bins in the parks and adjacent to the beach, there's no infrastructure on the beach itself and that's where most people bring their food and drink containers.".

The trials have been underway for several months and Surf Life Savers and beach-goers have really noticed the difference. Sunshine Coast Councillor and regular beach-goer Keryn Jones is a major supporter of the campaign and is extremely proud of the commitment being shown by the public and the Surf Life Saving volunteers.

"The recycling and waste bins are filling up each weekend and through strong messaging, reinforced by Surf Life Savers, contamination in the recycling bin is less than 10 per cent - not bad for a first time trial," Cr Jones said.

"Visibly, there is hardly any litter on the beach at all anymore, whereas before litter became buried in the sand and was left to be washed out to the sea when the tide came in, causing big problems for our precious marine life. I encourage all beach-goers to enjoy their time at the beach, but keep in mind this important message - Do the Right Thing, Use the Right Bin."

The trials are due to end in May with results announced at the inaugural EcoSurf Forum, a program which encourages surf lifesavers to work together with corporate and government partners and other community groups to positively impact on the environment. To find out more about the Eco Surf Forum or recycling trials please contact Don Parry at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .