Local yachties call on MUD to Clean River

On Sunday March 1^st, members of Murdoch University Divers (MUD) Club and Claremont Yacht Club (CYC) demonstrated their true club spirit when they joined forces to tackle the big clean up along the Swan River foreshore.

With a turn out that more than doubled last year's clean-up effort for the MUD Club President Kirk Rumball was overwhelmed by the generosity, support and successful integration of both clubs. There were 61 people either diving under the jetties, providing surface support to the divers or cleaning up along the foreshore. It was especially pleasing to see so much enthusiasm from volunteers spanning in age from over 70 to kids as young as 4.

Another volunteer equally impressed by the age demographic was Ross Campbell. Australia is in good hands with the youth of today, looking at the demographic of the volunteers that attended the clean-up.

CYC administrator Alison Robinson played a significant role in organising this year's event and she was particularly impressed to see that safety was of the utmost importance with any MUD diving event. Prior to this clean-up, a preliminary dive was carried out to identify any potential underwater hazards. Mr Rumball also gave a comprehensive dive briefing before any participants entered the water, which was very reassuring.

Interesting finds included two bikes, a chair, a wheel barrow and a rubbish bin, three items of which had been in the water so long, they had become important habitat for a variety of aquatic plants and animals. Site Co-ordinator and MUD Environmental Officer Michelle Anderson explained that sometimes it was better to leave them in the water because their removal could have negative impacts on the local ecosystem.

Ms Anderson, on behalf of MUD and CYC, would like to extend her thanks to all those involved in such a successful day.