Senator the Hon Murray Watt, Minister for the Environment and Water
Kristy McBain MP, Minister for Federal Emergency Management
Lucy Hood MP, South Australian Minister for Climate, Environment and Water
More than 5,500 hours of work have put in to help clean up and restore local beaches impacted by the harmful algal bloom by a veteran-led volunteer workforce.
The workers, who hail from around the country, have been colloquially dubbed the 'blue angels' for their previous work in disaster recovery situations while wearing their royal blue work shirts.
In total, 109 volunteers from Disaster Relief Australia (DRA) have been working tirelessly over the past three weeks in an effort dubbed 'Operation Harris'.
The veterans have made nearly 270 visits to 24 beaches during that time.
They have worked the equivalent of 766 days in the field based on number of volunteers and duration thus far.
Their contract has now been extended by an additional five weeks as the Federal and State Government's get beaches ready for the upcoming summer season.
Quotes attributable to Murray Watt:
"For many years now I've seen the tremendous work DRA does throughout disaster season. So to see their skills being put to good use in other times of need is incredible.
"They've been working so hard to help clean and restore South Australian beaches over the past few weeks, part of a concerted clean-up effort funded by the federal and state governments."
Quotes attributable to Lucy Hood:
"It's inspiring to see dedicated volunteers across different organisations and groups give up their own time to help ensure our beaches remain healthy, safe and enjoyable for the community.
"Their collective efforts spanning thousands of hours are making a real difference which South Australians can see first-hand along our coastline.
"We are grateful these efforts will continue and will provide further support to manage the bloom heading into summer."
Quotes attributable to Kristy McBain:
"The Albanese Government has contributed $38 million to support DRA's operations all around Australia.
"It's great to have DRA volunteers on the ground in South Australia assisting the local community during this time."
Quotes attributable to Disaster Relief Australia CEO Dave Smith:
"Today Disaster Relief Australia begins its fourth week on Operation Harris in South Australia.
"Our volunteers are on the ground at the request of the government to assist with the algal bloom clean up.
"Unlike previous traditional disaster recovery operations, Operation Harris demonstrates Disaster Relief Australia's adaptability, flexibility, and agility to assist in a range of disaster and all-hazards scenarios.
"The skills and experience of our veteran-led volunteer workforce further positions us as a viable and cost-effective alternative to the Australian Defence Force in recovery situations."
