by Carla Caruso

Four city residents have “adopted” spots in the Park Lands to keep clean.

The initiative’s part of the volunteer-run Adopt a Spot scheme, which aims to minimise waste entering the ocean through the regular collection and removal of debris. 

Groups and individuals adopt an area, where they undertake rubbish pick-ups and record and photograph what they find for its Facebook page.

For our local four:

• Christopher Tamits combs the South Park Lands Creek

• Janet Gallagher (pictured) looks after Victoria Park / Pakapakanthi (Park 16)

• Gillian Stevens, Golden Wattle Park / Mirnu Wirra (Park 21 West) and G.S. Kingston Park / Wirrarninthi (Park 23), and

• Janet Waters has “adopted” Bonython Park / Tulya Wardli (Park 27).

  Between the group, it’s a significant section of your Park Lands.

The friends tally what they collect and send the information to the Adopt a Spot coordinator, who then collates the data. Their aim is to influence waste management policy and encourage change. 

Christopher got involved not only to keep himself active but also to tackle the issue of plastic pollution. 

“The South Park Lands Creek is part of the stormwater network that eventually flows out to sea,” Christopher says. “It’s vital to keep this waste out of stormwater.”

Gillian became an Adopter after observing the number of cigarette butts and waste in the playground where children play. Becoming more aware of the amount of rubbish and where it ends up, she expanded her area to include small creeks and wetlands. 

It’s not unusual for Adopters to collect more than 200 butts, and after heavy rain, 100 bottle tops in one clean.  

“Whilst it’s sad to see the amount of waste that is collected, it’s rewarding to know that it’s not going to end up in the ocean and that the data is supporting policy,” Gillian says.

The Adopt a Spot Scheme is actively seeking adopters. 

“The Adelaide Park Lands Association, with KESAB, conducts bi-annual clean-ups,” Gillian says. “But it would be fantastic if this area was more frequently cared for to help preserve our environment.

“With higher density living and increased use comes increased waste. 

“Further development will only intensify the amount of litter that ends up in our waterways, finding its way to the beach.”

The Adelaide City Council provides public liability insurance for Adopters as it’s a recognised Scheme.

If you’re interested in becoming involved, message the Adopt a Spot group via its Facebook page or on email at adoptaspotscheme@gmail.com.