WHILE its 25th birthday candles last year might have been blown out by Cyclone Marcia, Capricorn Coast Landcare Group says the town's long-standing event is all set for this year.

Marcia took front seat last year but Capricorn Coast Landcare members are adamant, come wind or wild weather, you'll find them cleaning up the coast on Sunday morning with a celebratory spirit.

President Alby Wooler said the group had organised a local Clean Up Australia Day since 1990 to keep our coast clean.

"Many people don't understand why we do it when the rubbish seems to be back just a day or two later," Alby said.

"But the fact is, every piece we pick up is no longer causing an eyesore, leaching toxins into the ground, clogging up our waterways, washing back up on our beaches or, worse yet, ending up in the food chain and landing on our dinner plate.

"When you consider how much rubbish is non-biodegradable (plastics are the worst offenders because they never really disappear), you realise cleaning up does make a difference and it helps safeguard our kids' health."

Clean Up Australia Day started in 1989 when Ian Kiernan and a group of friends organised a clean-up at Sydney Harbour.

More than 40,000 people turned out to help.

While Alby readily admits Clean Up days on the Capricorn Coast are not quite so big, the impact they have is just as important.

"We all get so used to our garbage being whisked away every week, we forget we're still responsible for what ends up in our environment," he said.

"I always tell my Junior Landcarers that the planet will look after us as we look after it... so it just makes good sense to take care.

"Clean Up Australia Day is one of five yearly events that Capricorn Coast Landcare Group organises to engage youth and look after our natural areas."

St Ursula's, Keppel Coast Girl Guides and Friends of Lammermoor Native Gardens are this year joining Capricorn Coast Landcare Group's clean-up day - and they encourage you to join in too.

Clean-up day

Clean Up Australia Day will be held on Sunday, March 6, from 8.30-11.30am.

Bring your gloves, sturdy walking shoes and sun protection and sign on at the Figtree Creek Rehabilitation Site opposite Yeppoon Central. For details, phone Capricorn Coast Landcare Group on 4939 1002 or email envirolink@cqnet.com.au.

It's not too late to get involved, simply go to www.cleanupaustraliaday.org.au to find a local site, call 1800 CUA DAY (1800 282 329) to register as a volunteer, or just turn up on Sunday.

Volunteers are reminded to drink plenty of water, be sun smart with a hat, long sleeve shirt, sunscreen and sunglasses, and wear protective clothing such as gloves and sturdy enclosed shoes. 

The following sites have been registered: