Beach Clean Up Day

Written by: Anne Bellavance

On June 2, 2023, WFWP Victoria members, family and friends came together with Port Melbourne Beach Patrol volunteers for World Oceans Day and World Environment Day to address environmental problems, while also promoting education and community connection. With the other volunteers, WFWP worked to help keep Port Melbourne Beach clean and promote sustainability. Not only was it a chance for WFWP to participate in helping the environment, but it was also a great activity to bring the community together and foster meaningful relationships.

Beach Patrol volunteer groups in Victoria operate in 40+ postcodes. Groups meet monthly to pick up plastic litter from local beaches, streets or parks and meet like-minded people who are passionate about preserving our environment, wildlife, marine life and ecosystems. To find out more, visit the beachpatrol website

Romana, who heads up the Port Melbourne Beach Patrol, explained to the group that garbage found on the beach comes from storm water drains and garbage in the rivers flowing into Port Phillip Bay. When the Southerly winds blow onto land, this garbage is pushed onto the beach, resulting in a lot of garbage found on the tide lines. 

WFWP members had a good experience at the clean-up. One participant reflected, “It was fun, we found a phone, never know what you can find, or who you can find. If you like a free iPhone, come along next time. I am going to recycle it at the local Apple Store.” Another participant said, “I found a necklace. As I was placing it in the bag, a lady grabbed it! Her grandson gave it to her, and she was looking for it. She was so appreciative.”

A third mentioned how she “met a wonderful young woman at the clean-up. We did not know each other and worked as a team. We had such a good connection and hugged each other when we parted.”

Ocean Beach clean-up bags

Once collected, the Ocean Beach clean-up bags were emptied into the appropriate garbage and recycle bins that the council has placed along port Melbourne Beach footpath. Bags were taken home to reuse next time. 

After their early morning clean-up, WFWP members gathered over coffee and breakfast at a local café. One member noted they “enjoyed catching up with everyone.”

 It was a chance to get to know each other, develop deeper relationships and connect. A very rewarding morning. 
United Nations World Oceans Day rallies the world for ocean and climate action on June 8 and throughout the year. The UN works in partnership with youth leaders, zoos, aquariums, museums and other youth-focused organizations, as well as a huge range of diverse organizations and businesses from all sectors in a growing global network.

World Environment Day is celebrated annually on June 5 and encourages awareness and action for the protection of the environment. It is supported by many non-governmental organizations, businesses and government entities and represents the primary United Nations outreach day supporting the environment. 

It is time to accelerate this action and transition to a circular economy. It is time to #BeatPlasticPollution. To find out more, visit the UNEP website  

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