Last weekend, over 50 dedicated members of Coolangatta Surf Life Saving Club demonstrated their commitment to protecting our coastal environment by organizing the club’s largest beach cleanup event of the year.
The initiative, spearheaded by our Nippers program coordinator Sarah Thompson, saw participants of all ages—from our youngest Nippers to our most experienced patrol captains—combing Coolangatta Beach from Rainbow Bay to Greenmount Point.
“As lifesavers, we’re not just responsible for the safety of beachgoers but also for the health of our ocean environment,” explained Club President Michael Richardson. “Marine debris poses serious risks to swimmers, marine life, and the overall ecosystem we all enjoy.”
The team collected over 120kg of waste, including single-use plastics, fishing line, and microplastics. All collected items were documented for the Australian Marine Debris Database, contributing valuable data to national conservation efforts.
Particularly impressive was the enthusiasm of our Nippers participants, who turned the cleanup into an educational opportunity, learning to identify different types of marine pollution and understand their environmental impact.
“It’s inspiring to see our next generation of lifesavers already so passionate about ocean conservation,” said Thompson. “They understand that beach safety extends beyond rescue techniques to include environmental stewardship.”
The cleanup concluded with a sustainable BBQ at the clubhouse, where members discussed plans to make this a monthly event, potentially partnering with local schools and community groups to expand its impact.
Want to get involved in our next cleanup? Members and non-members alike are welcome to join. Keep an eye on our social media channels for upcoming dates, or contact our club office for more information.
Coolangatta SLSC—protecting our beach, our ocean, and our community since 1959.
