What a relief

By Mara Pattison-Sowden
THOSE lucky enough to go for an early morning stroll in Warburton are likely to come across the self-named Trash and Turd Patrol.
Warburton couple Ben and Ruth Aldridge have been picking up trash and dog faeces for more than three years, and believe the amount of rubbish around town has decreased substantially.
Mr and Mrs Aldridge walk along the river walk and the rail trail five days a week, for about two hours every morning.
Mrs Aldridge said the amount of rubbish along the public walks used to be terrible, and “certainly the mess from dogs is a lot less”.
“Even some days now it can be bad, it is worse when we’ve had a lot of visitors at the weekend but it is locals as well,” she said.
“But now is the time to say well done to the community, for keeping it clean.”
She said they were still shocked when they found containers and packaging from McDonald’s meals, when the closest outlet is in Lilydale, or Hungry Jack’s, which is in Chirnside Park.
Mrs Aldridge said they take a shopping trolley that is lined with bags provided by the Yarra Ranges Council.
“We’re finding people who get up early are noticing what we’re doing, and a few weeks ago my husband was stopped a thanked,” she said.
Mrs Aldridge said there was “something heartwarming” about seeing people looking after their own community.
“We were walking along Dammans Road and a mum and her two children had a huge bag and the children called out that they were picking up rubbish too,” she said.
She said the couple had lived in Warburton for six years and it had been a wonderful experience.
“We’re glad to be able to give something back,” she said.
“My husband has lost weight and gained health, which motivates us to go, and we always meet people when we’re out there.”
They finish their morning walk at the Warburton Bakery, where owner Peter Lambert shouts them a coffee.
“They really are to be admired,” he said.
“They work hard and it’s all for the benefit of the community.”