By Richard Bruinsma

The chilly hinterland morning was soon forgotten as around 25 volunteers took part in the third Obi Obi Creek cleanup recently at Maleny – including lots of enthusiastic, energetic and curious kids.

The cleanup has become a regular event after local resident Joanne Turner first decided to organise a cleanup for Clean Up Australia Day earlier this year.

“We found a bike, and a sign, and lots of really cool people, and made some connections and that was awesome an that’s kind of what it’s all about – getting people together and doing a little bit of good,” Ms Turner said of the latest event.

The children involved also enjoyed the adventure.

“There’s something about doing a little bit of a good deed – no matter what it is – that just makes you feel really good, and that can be a little bit addictive and, if you feed on that, then you’re going to keep doing good things; you’re going to be a bit kinder, you are going to pick up rubbish… so that’s a great thing.”

And after several clean-ups this year since March, the creek is looking good, but Ms Turner noted that’s no reason for complacency.

“I think it’s pretty clean but we always find something, and we find odd big things that are in there, so I think it’s something that’s always worth doing, even if there’s not much there,” she said.

“You need to just keep on top of it, because you never know what’s there, and it also keeps people thinking about looking after their environment, which is really one of the major things.

“If everyone does a little bit, then huge things happen, but if people just say, ‘It’s somebody else’s problem’, then nothing happens and it becomes a bigger problem.

“It’s been a great day, beautiful weather; it’s been lots of fun.”

Maleny IGA donated sausages for a sausage sizzle after the event.

Ms Turner said the next event would be a spring cleanup. She is inviting local businesses to get involved, noting it’s a great way to connect with the community, generate some positive publicity (or social media content), and do something good for the community. Search and follow “Obi Clean Up” on Facebook.

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