Teens clean habitats

North Geelong Secondary College students traded school for protecting wildlife at Point Henry on Tuesday, collecting rubbish in the lead-up to Clean Up Australia Day.
The students’ efforts would help protect local species including Burrunun dolphins, according to Conservation Volunteers Australia Geelong manager Mark Paganini.
Port Phillip Bay is one of two habitats in Victoria home to the species.
The Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning (VCAL) students cleaned up debris at Point Henry, which was home to internationally-significant migratory birds and fish nurseries, Mr Paganni said.
“We hope that this is the first of many of these types of events in the region,” he said.
“To have the support of (the school) on this great initiative is a significant step forward towards businesses in the area taking on and supporting the environment.”
Conservation volunteers assisted the students with their cleanup quest on Business Clean Up Day, while Cleanaway Waste Management disposed of the rubbish.
Mr Paganni encouraged local businesses to get involved throughout this week.
“By participating in a Business Clean Up, you are doing your part to promote a clean, healthy and sustainable environment,” he said.
“It’s also a fantastic way to be a community leader and engage with your staff, customers and local community.”
Business Clean Up Day is on of several precursor events to Clean Up Australia Day, which takes place on Sunday.