Sydney-based not-for-profit Seaside Scavenge is heading to Newcastle next month to deliver another fun and unique community clean-up and clothes swap extravaganza.
In partnership with City of Newcastle, and supported by its Community Support Grants Program, the free event – to be hosted at Merewether’s Dixon Park between 11am and 3pm on Saturday 12 February – will feature eco-friendly education, music, markets and more.
“The Seaside Scavenge is a wonderful opportunity for participants to reconnect with their community and the local environment, as well as reconsider their relationship to waste,” coordinator Eleanor Pratten said.
“For every 10 pieces of litter collected, people are rewarded with one Trash Token to use in a pop-up market of quality handpicked pre-loved clothes, books and toys.”
But, that’s not all.
The Seaside Scavenge will also showcase musical performances from Steel City Sue and up-and-coming duo Cormac and Manuel.
Residents can try their hands at a roving puppet performance with the guidance of waste-wise artists Curious Legends.
“The event will demonstrate circular economy principles in action through demonstrations of Sydney’s newest plastic recycling micro-factory by DEFY Design, too,” Ms Pratten said.
“It’ll also be packed full of market stalls run by local eco change-makers including Plastic Police, Planet Warrior Education, The Seabin Project, The Newy Share Shop, The RE Club and Trash Pixie Collective.
“All the litter collected on the day is catalogued and captured for the Australian Marine Debris Database, which is managed by Suez, a sponsor of the event.
“Prizes – kindly donated by Hunter businesses The Burwood Inn, Pulse Climbing, Coastline Yoga, the RE Club and Tula Yoga and Wellness – will be awarded to participants who collect the most litter and other fun categories like the most cigarette butts or the weirdest item, just to name a few.”
Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the Seaside Scavenge was a great way to help beautify and protect the coastline while also highlighting the importance of recycling and correct waste disposal.
“Our coast and beaches are loved by locals and major drawcards for visitors,” she stated.
“So, it is important we do everything we can to protect their environmental health.
“Events such as the Seaside Scavenge are a practical way for the community to make an impact while also reinforcing the importance of disposing of your rubbish correctly and promoting the benefits of reusing and recycling items rather than just sending them to landfill.
“It’s also about bringing communities together and encouraging them to reconsider their relationship to waste.
“By seeing how waste can be turned into a valuable resource, residents are introduced to circular economy principles and the importance of correct recycling habits.
“They are empowered to make small changes that collectively make a significant impact.”
A COVID-safe plan will be implemented as well.
“Seaside Scavenge is closely monitoring state regulations and encourages all attendees to bring a mask and maintain social distancing,” Ms Pratten said.
“Hand sanitiser will be provided at the event.”
To attend the Newcastle Seaside Scavenge, be sure to register online through the Eventbritelink.
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