Community asked to help protect Kingston's natural assets
Kingston Council is calling on the community to help protect our 13 km of beautiful beaches and reserves, important vegetation and other natural assets across the city.
Kingston Mayor Steve Staikos said during the Summer months especially, local residents and visitors are out and about enjoying Kingston's wonderful natural recreation areas but that also increases the pressure on our natural environment.
"We need to make sure that while we are playing, walking, relaxing and celebrating we also respect the precious environment around us," said Cr Staikos. "Help us to keep Kingston clean and beautiful, remember to remove and bin all rubbish when you leave for the day.
In response to the increase we are seeing in visitors to our reserves and foreshore areas and the use of our litter bins, Council has increased bin services over the past weeks. This has included a mix of additional collections, increased monitoring by officers and providing additional bins in hot spots. We are also in the process of planning the roll out of bin sensors in areas to enable a rapid response to full bins.
"We are also lucky to have some high quality, valuable habitat vegetation along Mordialloc Creek and in other areas. Sticking to the main paths when out enjoying nature is important to protect our natural environment."
Council wants to remind people that there are substantial fines and the potential for prosecution for anyone caught vandalising vegetation. We urge the community to report vandalism taking place.
Our vegetation is critical in stabilising dunes, safeguarding against erosion and provides valuable habitat for local fauna. It is an offence to interfere with, remove or damage any vegetation on Crown Land.
"Many might not realise that Council will plant at least five trees to replace any tree that is destroyed by vandalism and will also erect a sign to indicate vandalism has occurred," said Cr Staikos. "The sign will remain in place until the new trees are as tall as the tree that has been destroyed."
"Our beautiful foreshore and other reserves are home to a variety of remnant vegetation and provide habitat for local fauna. It is there for the entire community to enjoy and we want your help to make sure it is protected for future generations."
To report an offender or suspicious behaviour call the Council hot line on 1300 653 356.
