Many hands do make light work – just ask Megan Phillips, community connector with the Lakeside Charitable Trust, organisers of last Saturday’s (September 17) annual lakeside clean-up in Cromwell.

“Saturday was an incredible turn out,” Megan said. 

Lakeside Charitable Trust community connector Megan Phillips

She estimated more than 80 people got stuck in on the day and removed 13 trailers of green waste (lupins, invasive willow and fallen branches) and two of general rubbish, working between Richards Beach and McNulty Inlet.

Several Cromwell community groups were involved and many families and individuals came along to help out. 

Family fun (from left): Ty Walker, Mo Walker, Sam Grubb, Melanie Mills and Crew the dog.  Between them they collected a jandal, a smoke alarm, plastic items and glass bottles. The first-timers found out about the event through Sam’s school, Cromwell Primary, and he encouraged the family to go

Cromwell Rotary Club on the job

Cromwell Rowing Club chipping in

Whitney Kooman and Bailey spontaneously joined in while out on their walk

Mōkihi Trust trustees Richard Lord (left) and Marty Connell cleared weeds and netting

Crew doing his bit (that’s his story anyway)

Anyone interested in further beautification of the lake is invited to join the Cromwell Native Tree planting event planned for Saturday October 8 from 10am to 4pm. 

The event is in partnership with Lake Dunstan Charitable Trust, Te Tapu o Tāne and Department of Conservation. Registration essential.