Last month, 10 students from Curtin University volunteered and joined forces with the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation, and Attractions (DBCA) to clean up 25km of coastline along the Jurien Bay Marine Park over five days. 

Blessed with sunny weather, the participants spent one week removing debris from Jurien Bay, Sandy Cape, Hill River, and Grey beaches. In total, 1153kg of rubbish was collected, including a 55kg commercial fishing net caught on reef off Grey.

All debris was then classified and entered into the Australian Marine Debris Initiative Database, where impacts can be identified and strategies developed to prevent these items from becoming ocean debris. 

With all items sorted, the team was able to recycle bottles and cans and upcycle fishing gear by donating it to local businesses, where it will be used to rebuild new fishing gear. 

The ongoing issue of marine pollution poses threats to our wildlife such as entrapment, entanglement, and ingestion. 
The Marine Debris Program helps protect our unique ecosystems – where endangered Australian Sea Lions reside, seabirds breed, temperate and tropical fish converge, and migratory whales pass through. 

By removing litter from our shores, we are safeguarding the natural seascape and biodiversity that defines Jurien Bay.
Thanks to Yued Aboriginal Corporation rangers for their involvement in the second day of the clean-up.

How you can help!

• Take only photos, leave only footprints – remember to always take your rubbish with you when leaving the beach.
• Take 3 for the Sea – Take 3 pieces of rubbish with you when leaving the beach. A small act can make a big difference.
• Reduce your single use plastic at home – Don’t forget your keep cup for your morning coffee.
• Get involved – Tangaroa Blue holds regular beach clean-up events. Register for ‘The WA Beach Clean-Up’ from 17 to 20 October at www.tangaroablue.org.