The South Brisbane Sailing Club at West End is making a difference to the Brisbane River thanks to the Sea World Research & Rescue Foundation and Healthy Land and Water. Sailors of all ages will be joining a ‘clean up the river’ race near Orleigh Park to help rid the Brisbane River of plastic bottles and other types of floating debris destined for Moreton Bay.
“We often see junk floating down the River when we are out sailing. But this weekend each boat will get additional points for each piece of rubbish they collect. It is sad but true that according to the Australian Marine Conservation Society, a staggering 200 turtles are reported dead, injured or sick in Moreton Bay Marine Park every year. And the cause of death of over 30 percent of stranded sea turtles in Moreton Bay is ingestion of marine debris,” said Vice President of the South Brisbane Sailing Club, Robert Preston.
Director of Sea World Research & Rescue Foundation, Trevor Long says marine debris is a problem for marine life especially for some of the many turtles rescued and rehabilitated each year. “This program aims to gather information regarding the extent of marine debris in South East Queensland while also raising community awareness about the issue. Together with Healthy Land and Water and the community, we feel we can make a difference in addressing this growing problem,” he said.
CEO of Healthy Land and Water, Julie McLellan says that Healthy Land and Water is excited to partner with the Sea World Research & Rescue Foundation. “Healthy Land and Water and Sea World Research & Rescue Foundation hope to inspire the community to get involved in the issue of waterway litter. Waterway litter and marine debris, particularly plastic, pose a serious threat to sea turtles and other marine wildlife,” she said.
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