CARAVANNERS and other travellers are being asked to help reduce unsightly litter which is scarring some coastal and remote areas of Western Australia.

A new Keep Australia Beautiful initiative is targeting grey nomads, caravan and camping clubs and 4WD groups because they often visit remote areas and encounter litter in what would be otherwise pristine landscapes.

They are being urged to collect special clean-up kits containing gloves, tongs, a trowel, heavy duty plastic bags and information about road safety, vegetation and habitat protection. The free Outback Packs, available from visitor centres in the Pilbara, encourage road and rest-stop users to clean up during their journey, especially in more remote areas.

Keep Australia Beautiful Council WA chairman Mel Hay told Caravanning News: "Some of the most remote parts of Australia host the most breathtaking views and natural scenery. Unfortunately the amount of litter in these areas can spoil the experience of many travellers.

"By collecting an Outback Pack and taking a few extra minutes to clean up litter, caravanners and others can make an outstanding contribution to the environment and help keep Australia beautiful for the enjoyment of generations to come."

Outback Packs also include a questionnaire and survey form and the data gathered will provide Keep Australia Beautiful with useful information devise litter-reduction strategies.

Port Hedland Visitor Centre manager Kelly Howlett said the packs were a great initiative and visitor centres at Port Hedland, Roebourne, Newman and Karratha had all rushed to be involved.

"By making these kits available to travellers to the area, if litter hot spot areas are seen – be it local rest areas, camping areas, rivers and National Parks – the litter can be collected and the hot spot area reported back to the relevant management authority.

"That way we have got a lot more eyes, hands and ultimately resources to look after our unique natural environment areas" she said.

For further information or to get a free Outback Pack contact Port Hedland Visitor Centre on 08 9173 1711.

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