EVEN though the year-long Don't be a Tosser campaign will soon come to an end, Muswellbrook residents are being encouraged to continue their anti-litter actions.
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And, as part of this commitment, Muswellbrook Girl Guides and Scouts, as well as Warrior Disability Services, have agreed to take part in an "adopt a site" program, which will see these groups undertake activities to keep specific areas clean while urging the community not to litter.
Other organisations who were involved in the initiative have also promised to reduce the amount of rubbish in the shire.
Muswellbrook High School, Muswellbrook Golf Club and the Muswellbrook Rams Rugby League Football Club have all played a role in spreading the anti-littering message.
Muswellbrook Shire Council sustainability officer Mick Brady said it was great to see residents and organisations demonstrating their support for a clean and healthy local environment to be enjoyed by everyone.
"The Muswellbrook Rams, in conjunction with the [Muswellbrook] council, have been a big part of the Don't be a Tosser campaign," club president Stephen Lamb said.
"The slogan sits proudly on the gear being worn by players.
"It's wonderful the club could be a part of such a meaningful campaign."
Staff and students at Muswellbrook High School jumped on board the crusade through a can and bottle recycling program.
"I am proud to say that the students have eagerly embraced the program and the bins have filled quickly," Stage 5 head teacher Narelle Smith said.
"We've also seen a flow-on affect into staff staffrooms, where staff is also recycling their cans and bottles.
"It is hoped that MHS continues to work with council to implement and continue to educate on recycling and environmental projects."
Warrior Disability Services is very proud of its community and has been learning about waste and what the consequences are for the environment when people litter.
"We're so excited we have a site we can keep clean and look after," director of participant services Sally Pereira said.
Residents who dump rubbish are reminded that they can be fined, while those who don't are being asked to report to the EPA if they see someone litter.
Fines of $250 for an individual and $500 for a corporation can be issued.
The "Don't Be a Tosser" and "Report a Tosser" campaigns are a NSW EPA Waste Less, Recycle More initiative funded from the waste levy.
To report littering or illegal dumping go to www.epa.nsw.gov.au/your-environment/litter-and-illegal-dumping/report-littering
For more information about the Don't be a Tosser campaign, contact Mick Brady on 6549 3700 or email sustainability@muswellbrook.nsw.gov.au