Plastic Free July may be over, but the commitment to protecting Lake Illawarra continues year-round. Across our community, passionate individuals are stepping up to help us care for this precious ecosystem every day.
Our local heroes are helping contribute towards a cleaner and enjoyable lake for everyone. Their stories remind us that small actions, repeated consistently, can make a big impact. And with those actions come new friendships, a stronger sense of community, and the uplifting feeling of doing something good for our environment.
Meet a few faces of our community that care for our lake all year around
At our most recent Rise and Shine Clean Up event, we asked volunteers why they participate and why they keep coming back to work with us.
At our most recent Rise and Shine Clean Up event, we asked volunteers why they participate and why they keep coming back to work with us.
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Steven from Mangerton, who has lived in the Wollongong LGA for many years, shared how grateful he feels to call this place home: "It is good to give back to Wollongong. Wollongong has been very kind to us, and I like to give back." Steven's motivation to join clean-ups is deeply rooted in his love for nature and concern for wildlife: "It's the plastic the fish eat. Birds get entangled in fishing line. We love nature, and it is awful when people throw out cans and such." He also highlights, how it makes him feel when taking the time to look after nature "Nature is wonderful, cleaning up makes me feel better too."
Local resident Geraldine shared that her journey began in the 1970s, when she started cleaning up on her own. Decades later, her commitment hasn't wavered and now it's become a family affair.
"[I participate in the Clean Ups] to give back. The world has given us such a lot, and I want to give back. I could do this all day." "My husband has now started it too. My daughter is volunteering as well." Her story shows how one person's quiet dedication can ripple outward, inspiring others to join in and make a difference.
 enjoying a coffee, a snack and a laugh after a successful Clean Up event. |
For Carol from Haywards Bay, clean-ups have always been part of her life. Recently, she's extended the invitation to her walking group where members participated in the last monthly lake Clean Up, turning a personal habit into a shared experience.
"I've been doing clean-ups as long as I can think of, and now I've invited my walking group to come along." Carol's story shows how environmental care can be woven into everyday routines and how it can bring people together in meaningful ways.
Council team members reflect on the power of community Clean Ups
The stories of our volunteers offer just a glimpse into the everyday care and commitment that surrounds Lake Illawarra. But it's not only the volunteers who feel the impact, council team members working alongside them are equally moved. Their reflections reveal how these clean-ups do more than protect the lake; they strengthen the bonds between people and deepen our connection to the environment.
Council staff Brodie and Emma have seen firsthand how the Rise and Shine Clean Ups are not only helping the environment, but also build a stronger, more connected community. "Everyday people with their own lives are willing to give up their time to help make our community cleaner and safer for everyone to use," says Brodie. "Their willingness to help always drives me to do more."
Over the last financial year, the program removed 42 tonnes of waste from the natural environment, which is then sorted to reduce what ends up in landfill. Emma adds, "Getting in and removing as much as we can is a good feeling because the impact is immediate, even one less bit of rubbish is reducing the risk of harm to wildlife and the ecosystem."
Both staff members say they feel inspired by the volunteers' selflessness. "Our volunteers are going out of their way to pick up other people's litter. That alone is impactful and inspiring," says Emma.
The clean-ups have also created lasting friendships. "Our regular groups have built close-knit communities," Emma explains. "We wanted to create somewhere people could meet new friends, do something physical, and leave feeling proud," Brodie adds. "Every day I feel proud to be part of this program, just by getting to be involved with the most amazing people who deserve all the credit."
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Why it matters
Lake Illawarra is a sensitive ecosystem under pressure from pollution, especially plastic. Larger plastic items can entangle wildlife or be mistaken for food, while over time they break down into microplastics that contaminate soil, water, and the food chain.
Removing plastic while it's still in larger pieces helps prevent this breakdown, reducing long-term environmental damage and protecting aquatic life. Regular clean ups are a practical, high-impact way to support the lake's health.
Lord Mayor Tania Brown shared: "Lake Illawarra is such a key part of Wollongong's identity and Council is proud to lead efforts to protect the lake. However, it's not something we can do alone. By working with the NSW Government, Shellharbour City Council, and our passionate community, we're tackling the big picture together and that's what makes real progress possible. I'm very appreciative of the community members who show up, take action, and care deeply for this special place."
Throughout the year, numerous council-led projects guided by the Coastal Management Program help protect Lake Illawarra. But it's the community - locals, families, and volunteers - who drive real impact. Their ongoing care not only safeguards the lake but also strengthens the connection between people and place.
Learn, clean, connect - upcoming events, workshops and education
The numerous Council actions around the lake are just one part of a wider community effort to protect Lake Illawarra. Many groups and individuals, often without council support, are restoring habitats, raising awareness, and caring for upstream creeks, especially after rain when litter flows into the lake. If you are inspired, come and join us at clean-ups, workshops, or other events:
