by Renee Wood
Healesville businesses joined local group No Reason 4 Rubbish for Business Clean Up Australia Day on Tuesday 1 March.
Members from the Bendigo Community Bank and Versos Books worked with volunteers to sweep the main street of litter.
Sarah Stewart from Versos Books said it’s the first time they’ve joined in on the event and it helps to create awareness and town pride.
“Verso joined the event because it aligns with our values and business practice of being an active community presence. We enjoy participating in events that foster social awareness and encourage pride in our town,” Ms Stewart said.
The Bendigo Community Bank also sponsors NR4R and Branch Manager Keeley Mahoney said staff give back in other ways.
“We want to enjoy our beautiful town along with the residents and tourists. Not only do we provided grants and sponsorships, the staff and board give our time to non for profit organisation needing help,” Ms Mahoney said.
Ms Mahoney said the clean up day will now continue to be an annual event.
“The town isn’t too untidy, it seems that bottles, cans and cigarette butts are the most regularly seen rubbish. When people are having fun sometimes they forget their manners and drop litter that normally they wouldn’t. Education of young and old will eventually lead to less litter.”
Ms Stewart said Clean Up Australia day is important to be a part of no matter your location.
“In the main we see Healesville as a lovely town that is well kept and clean. The Clean Up Australia movement is an important one, and regardless of our particular locality we believe it’s worth getting involved, especially to raise awareness,” she said.
No Reason 4 Rubbish was founded by local residents to bring rubbish warriors together and clean up areas throughout the Yarra Ranges Shire.
Founding member Cindy DeLuca said anyone is welcome to join the group and has noticed an increase in those participating.
“We’ve been giving out more of our starter kits recently,” she said.
The group is also welcome to donations which help to purchase more gear for volunteers.
For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/groups/1059923557781750
