Connections make light work of coastal erosion

As a small group comprising only five to six volunteers at the time, Anglesea Coast Action was pondering the problem of how to find the resources needed to control erosion in a popular coastal reserve. The group had developed a solution that involved lining a stormwater drainage channel with rock, which sounded simple enough. Implementing [...]

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Taking the initiative

The Eagle Rock Marine Sanctuary is regularly frequented by a group of local snorkelers who identified the need to establish a standalone friends group. With Eagle Rock right on the snorkelers’ doorsteps, the group recognised the importance of the sanctuary to the local and snorkelling/diving communities. Members also felt that the sanctuary would benefit from an organisation that provided opportunities for the general public to engage with it. Consequently, the Friends of Eagle Rock Marine Sanctuary group was created to work on projects specific to the sanctuary.

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Creating interest in young and old alike

On a cold, dreary winter’s night, some 40 brave Ocean Grove locals gathered at the Piping Hot Chicken Shop for a movie night with a difference. The movie screened was called ‘Message in the Waves’. The event’s young organisers hoped its messages would motivate viewers to sign up for a new Coast Action/Coastcare group in Ocean Grove. Despite the township boasting an untapped source of volunteers, such a group did not then exist. Following the screening, 35 people registered their interest in joining the new group, which was a fantastic outcome. The involvement of younger generations – as well as those not so young – was particularly exciting. In all, the event provided a catalyst for encouraging and motivating the local community to start caring about coastal issues and to develop a sense of ownership and responsibility for the coast.

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Sending a message

Surfrider Foundation is a non-profit organisation dedicated to the protection and enhancement of Australia’s oceans, waves and beaches. Marine debris is a key Surfrider initiative due to its detrimental impacts on marine and coastal environments. Through local beach cleanups and community education activities, volunteers, community groups, industry and government agencies, and other environmental organisations are actively engaged in making a positive and sustainable impact on marine debris.

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Boxthorn no match for community enterprise

Boxthorn is a highly invasive weed that poses a very serious threat to indigenous vegetation. The Princetown Landcare group decided enough was enough and started to take direct action against Boxthorn infestations in the area. Through these efforts, Princetown Landcare has achieved so much more than it initially expected in terms of addressing the scourge of Boxthorn. Although the group’s work is still a long way from being finished, the project is already seeing positive movement toward a more cooperative, cohesive and caring community that is united by a common issue.

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