Campers, beach-goers, and holiday makers are reminded to dispose of their rubbish appropriately over the Easter break. 

Mary-Alice Swan, Burnett Mary Regional Group’s (BMRG) new Coastal and Critical Aquatic Habitats Coordinator, said plastic, cigarette butts and other rubbish all have the potential to kill coastal and marine animals such as fish, shorebirds, turtles and dolphins. 

“When enjoying our unique beaches, rivers and beautiful bush over Easter, we should try to leave them in a better state than we found them,” Ms Swan said. 

“Put your rubbish back into your esky or bag; don’t leave it there to be washed into the waterways and the oceans.” 

“The recent floods and rains were a reminder of how litter and all sorts of things can be swept into creeks and rivers, even from urban areas, so it’s best to dispose of rubbish properly.” 

A UN study in 2006 revealed an average of 46,000 pieces of plastic in every square mile of the ocean. The health of coastal and aquatic habitats is of large concern to Ms Swan, whose responsibilities in her new role at BMRG include reducing threats to coastal systems. 

“My biggest project will be working with local stakeholders to improve the condition of the Great Sandy Strait Ramsar Wetland and nearby coast.   

“This will include marine debris clean-ups, habitat restoration, weed and pest control.” 

“The Burnett Mary’s coastal and critical aquatic habitats are really unique and have to be looked after.” 

The Great Sandy Strait Ramsar Wetland project is supported by BMRG through funding from the Australian Government’s Caring for our Country.