The Sharks are proudly supporting the 'Clean Up, Up Cronulla' initiative on September 21, helping to protect the coastline and preserve the natural beauty of the region's iconic beaches.
In collaboration with Surfrider Foundation Cronulla, Sutherland Shire Council and Cronulla RSL, the Sharks Have Heart Foundation will raffle off a signed jersey while inviting staff and players to join the clean-up crusade.
Beloved Sharks mascot Reefy will be on hand for the duration of the family-friendly event at North Cronulla's Dunningham Park from 10am-12pm. The day will also feature live music, prizes and tasty treats as the community bands together for a vital cause.
Cronulla Sharks Community Engagement Manager Luke Koutrodimos, who manages the charitable Sharks Have Heart Foundation, emphasised the club's dedication to the community and environmental initiatives.
"We are more than just a football club, and our continued support of Clean Up, Up Cronulla reflects our commitment to our community and our environment," Mr Koutrodimos said.
"As the biggest brand in the Sutherland Shire, we are dedicated to protecting our oceans and promoting a cleaner, safer coastline for all."
Surfrider Foundation Cronulla President Joe Glendinning said the event is a chance to turn awareness into action.
"Surfrider Foundation Cronulla created Clean Up, Up Cronulla with Sharks Have Heart a few years ago to provide a fun and engaging family event for the community that aims to raise awareness about ocean pollution," Mr Glendinning said.
"We are thrilled to relaunch the event with the Sharks, Sutherland Shire Council, and Cronulla RSL this year.
"Clean Up, Up Cronulla intends to inspire a more ocean-friendly community that actively protects Cronulla's beaches and ocean.
"We look forward to seeing everyone at the event and we hope that it inspires participants to do their part to help keep Cronulla's ocean clean and safe for all to enjoy."
Sutherland Shire Mayor, Councillor Jack Boyd, described Clean Up, Up Cronulla as a great opportunity for the community to make a long-lasting impact.
"One of the things our residents value most about life in Sutherland Shire is our close connection to the natural environment," Mayor Boyd said.
"Preventing litter keeps our outdoor spaces clean and safe for everyone to enjoy while protecting wildlife on land and in the water."
Clean Up, Up Cronulla will feature a range of activities, including:
- A beach clean-up at North Cronulla Beach – help remove at least five pieces of litter
- Education on threats to marine life and how you can help protect it, including an ocean plastic test
- Cronulla Sharks giveaways and a raffle to win a signed jersey
- Face painting and a live animal display
- Free ice cream or coffee/hot chocolate
- Live music.
This event is part of Council's broader commitment to environmental sustainability and community engagement, aligning priorities outlined in the Sutherland Shire Council Waste Strategy 2022–2042.
For more information, visit the Sutherland Shire Council website.
