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BeachPatrol Relevant News Blog
The beach patrol vision is for all beach users to enjoy a clean and safe beach
The beach patrol vision is for all beach users to enjoy a clean and safe beach
Susan Young, a dedicated teacher with a passion for the environment, leads the charge at Mornington Beach Patrol 3931. Since taking the helm in July 2024, she's been instrumental in revitalizing the group and inspiring a wave of community action.
A Natural Leader
Susan's leadership journey began when she saw an opportunity to breathe new life into the Mornington BeachPatrol group. "It fell in my lap”, when there was a need for a leader she explains. "I could also see that membership had not been growing, nor any data recorded for some time and I wanted to rectify that." Motivated by a love for the environment and a desire to collaborate with like-minded people, Susan quickly established a friendly and supportive atmosphere within the group.
Making Waves in Mornington
Under Susan's leadership, Mornington BeachPatrol has achieved some impressive milestones. A highlight was their appearance on the Today Show on New Year's Day 2025, where they shared their passion for a cleaner coastline with the nation. They also organised a first-of-its-kind event: simultaneous cleanups across all four accessible beaches in Mornington.
Engaging the Community
Susan believes in the power of community engagement. When leading cleanups, Susan actively engages with the public. She encourages them to join the cause and educates them about the importance of environmental stewardship. Susan also shares information about litter reduction apps like Litter Stopper and SnapSendSolve, empowering volunteers to take action beyond the monthly beach cleans. She actively promotes cleanups through social media, local news outlets, and hopes to list BeachPatrol in the council handbook.
From Trash to Treasure: Reducing Landfill Waste
Susan and her volunteers aren’t just picking up litter; they’re actively reducing the amount ending up in landfills! Through initiatives and partnerships with local organisations, they're diverting a range of materials from landfill. When asked what Susan diverts from landfill she responded, “We're keeping items like fishing waste (Rigcycle), CDS (Return-It 42 Watt Rd), coffee cups, lids and straws (Simply Cups through 7-11), and large polystyrene deposits (Mornington Resource Recovery Centre) and even good quality items and clothes, we disperse for recycling at local op shops.’
Beyond the Beach
When she's not leading beach cleanups, Susan enjoys a variety of activities, including gardening and staying active with water activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, and swimming. If there's enough time left in the day, she also enjoys playing the piano. In addition to her passion for the environment, Susan volunteers at Hastings Repair Cafe once per month on the welcoming desk.
A True Champion for Mornington
Susan's dedication to environmental stewardship has caught the attention of local officials. The Deputy Mayor even approached her about grant funding for the group, recognising the value of their efforts. With her passion and commitment, Susan is making a real difference in Mornington, one cleanup at a time.
Want to get involved? Join Susan and the Mornington Beach Patrol on the last Sunday of each month at 9:30 am. They alternate cleanups between Mills, Mothers', and Fisherman's Beaches. In addition to an opportunity to meet for coffee on a Saturday after an extra clean at Shire Hall Beach (on the months before a Mothers’ Beach Clean).
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