Mayor urges community to be ‘park-proud’

Townsville City Council is calling on residents to help keep the city’s incredible network of more than 300 parks and open spaces clean and welcoming for everyone.

Mayor Nick Dametto said Townsville’s parks and outdoor spaces were critical assets for the community.

“These green spaces offer playgrounds for our kids, shady spots for picnics, and pathways for walking, running, and cycling; but, keeping them clean is something we can only achieve together,” Cr Dametto said.

“Every piece of rubbish left behind impacts not just the amenity of our parks, but also the native wildlife that call these spaces home.

“Rubbish can harm animals, pollute waterways, and ruin the experience for everyone who visits so please make sure, when you are out and about enjoying the outdoors, you do your bit to keep the place clean and tidy and ready for the next family to visit.

“We also want to remind people to make sure they are being a responsible pet owner and picking up after their dogs – it goes without saying that stepping on a pile of dog poo will ruin anyone’s day and can certainly be avoided if people pick up after their animals.”

Cr Dametto said Council would continue its back to basics focus in the New Year and called on the community to join in by being “park-proud”.

“Council works hard to maintain these spaces, but we can’t do it alone,” he said.

“We want to see residents also doing their bit by ensuring they place their rubbish in the bins provided, or taking it home where this isn’t possible.

“If issues are identified with any parks, playgrounds or outdoor spaces, please report your concerns to Council promptly through the Snap Send Solve app available on mobile phones or by contacting Council on 13 48 10.

“We will still have essential crews working over the festive season, and they will tend any matters that arise as quickly as practicable.

“These are the worker bees of the community, who often don’t get the recognition they deserve, however Council certainly appreciates these crews being on the ground to keep the city running throughout the holidays.”

To help do your bit and be park proud, please:

• Place your rubbish in a bin provided on-site
• If bins are full or not nearby, take your rubbish home
• Report issues like overflowing bins or illegal dumping using the Snap Send Solve app.

For more information on reporting a problem to Council, visit our website.