Throughout the huge success of the “Leave your worries behind NOT your rubbish” campaign, Indigo Shire Council is seeking to encourage and improve stormwater quality in North East Victoria.

As part of the campaign Indigo Shire Council’s Beechworth Visitor Information Centre has received 50 litter prevention kits. 

Indigo Shire Council Natural Recourse Management Officer Ms Shay Simpson said the kits provided motorist with a car rubbish bag, personal ashtray, EPA merchandise, campaign postcards and children’s activity booklet.

She said the aim of the campaign was to continue to educate tourists and locals about litter and the importance of preserving our natural environment.

“Through imagery, the campaign materials bring into focus how truly spectacular and precious our natural environment is,” she said.

“The campaign also targets locals urging them to report litter offenders to the EPA.

“A key component of the campaign is facilitating the establishment of partnerships and networks across the region ensuring local government and industry professionals continue to build knowledge and remain at the forefront of implementing stormwater management best practise.”

Regional Stormwater Education Officer Emma Russell said stormwater was pure rainwater plus anything the rain carries along with it and unlike sewerage, stormwater was not treated. 

She said it ran straight from your streets to waterways inhabited by fish, frogs, aquatic animals and plants. 

“Stormwater pollution can be controlled if everyone plays a part in managing the drains in the streets where we live and work,” she said.

“Involving people in litter prevention programs is more effective than information, giving them the responsibility of environment educators.

“By publicly stating that we as a community believe our area is glorious it will provide tourist with a sense of community and pride for our region.

“Increased environmental awareness is essential to reduce the amount of waste disposed of incorrectly during busy times of the year, eventually reducing the amount of litter passed through stormwater.”

For further information about the campaign or stormwater management practises please contact Indigo Shire Council’s Regional Stormwater Education Officer Emma Russell on (03) 5722 0727.

Please report littering to the EPA hotline on 1800 352 555.