Caring For Our Bays Conference hits Geelong

Host of ABC’s War on Waste program Craig Reucassel visited Geelong on Friday May 3 to host a conference aimed at encouraging businesses, project partners and the community to work collaboratively to keep local bays clean.

The “Caring For Our Bays Conference” hosted by the Bellarine Catchment Network highlighted environmental concerns for the region’s primary waterways, including litter and pollution entering Port Philip Bay and Corio Bay.

Reucassel headlined as the keynote speaker and called on attendees to pledge one action they could take to reduce waste and litter.

The Australian writer and comedian was joined by other local groups and individuals championing waste reduction at a state and national level.

City of Greater Geelong councillor Sarah Mansfield, who chairs the environment and sustainability portfolio, said the conferences served as an opportunity to create networks and share ideas on waste reduction.

“Corio Bay is a Geelong icon, and one of our city’s key environmental, social and economic assets,” she said.

“But its health is threatened by litter, pollution, development and climate change.

“Many community groups are passionate about restoring and protecting our bay, and this conference is the start of a great opportunity for them to come together to share their wisdom and experience; and explore opportunities for future partnerships.”

The conference targeted engagement from local businesses, land managers, organisations, schools and community groups from the Geelong and Bellarine region. It also touched on the need for action from all three tiers of government.

“It was great to have an audience so engaged and knowledgeable in all things waste,” said Reucassel.