SSSIO Region NSW – Clean Up Australia Day 2025
Clean Up Australia Day is a nationwide annual event held to promote environmental sustainability and cleaner communities. This year it was held on Sunday, 2 March with multiple activities around the country. Members of NSW Region of the SSSIO attended one at Kissing Park Reserve, a popular public space within the Putney area.
Participation in the event aimed to bring together the SSSIO with other community members to contribute to the upkeep and beautification of their surroundings.
Twenty-five enthusiastic volunteers showed up to take part in the cleanup efforts. The participants included 18 Sai centre members, 5 children from the SSE education program as well as 2 individuals who have been regular supporters of environmental activities.
The day began with a brief introduction and safety briefing, followed by the distribution of cleanup materials such as gloves, trash bags, and recycling bins. Volunteers were divided into groups to tackle various sections of the park, the sandy beach near the boat ramps and surrounding areas. The focus was primarily on collecting litter, recycling appropriate materials, and ensuring that the park remained a clean and safe space for visitors.
Participants collected a range of waste materials, including plastics, paper, glass bottles, and other debris. Special attention was given to separating recyclables from non-recyclable waste, ensuring that as much of the trash as possible could be properly processed.
Although the weather was overcast, the temperature was mild, which made for comfortable working conditions. The cloudy sky prevented the day from becoming too hot, making it easier for volunteers to remain engaged and focused on the task at hand.
The cleanup event also provided an opportunity for centre members to connect and collaborate towards a common goal. The presence of families with SSE students, individuals, and environmental advocates helped foster a sense of community and shared responsibility for the environment.
We were also thanked by Councillor Penny Pederson and Evelyn Hwang of the council’s Waste and Recycling team who paid us a visit at the park to thank the SSSIO members on behalf of City of Ryde.
The event concluded with chanting Om and Bramarpanam before enjoying the sandwiches and snacks provided by various centre members.
Overall, the event highlighted the positive impact that centre members can have when they come together for a shared cause. It is looked forward to hosting more cleanup events in the future at centre level to continue making a difference in the local environment.
The SSSIO organisers extend their thanks to the larger Clean Up Australia Day sponsors who supported the event.
