Shellharbour City residents are encouraged to roll up their sleeves and get set for Clean Up Australia Day this Sunday 3 March to help get rid of the city’s accumulated rubbish.

Shellharbour City Mayor Marianne Saliba said the day was part of Council's long-term commitment to improving the environment at a local level.

There are also prizes up for grabs as an incentive for the community to participate.

"I encourage everyone to get involved. This campaign raises awareness about the negative impact loose rubbish has on our environment, and empowers everyone involved to be part of the solution," Cr Saliba said.

“When rubbish is gone, nature can carry on and we can enjoy the beautiful environment in which we are lucky enough to live.”

Lake Illawarra Foreshore Improvement Group (FIG) spokesperson John Davey said the group would be cleaning up the Boonerah Point area at Lake Illawarra this Sunday.

FIG comprises residents who live along Reddall Parade, between Konrads Road and Madigan Boulevard. The group has been actively passionately protecting the lake and its foreshore for many years.

“We strongly believe that the health of the lake, the ‘jewel’ in the Illawarra’s crown, is under threat from rubbish and other illegal activities,” Mr Davey said.

“Littering and dumping of rubbish endanger this precious asset and we’re excited to be part of this year’s Clean Up Australia Day event,” Mr Davey said.

The first national Clean Up Australia Day event was in 1990. In the past 27 years, Australians have devoted more than 32 million hours towards the environment through Clean Up Australia Day and collected over 344 thousand tonnes of rubbish.

For more information on how to get involved in a local Clean Up Australia Day event contact Council on 4221 6111 or visit www.cleanupaustraliaday.org.au.

FIG media contact: John Davey 0428 102038 or John.davey@thechangeoffice.com.au.

Council media enquiries: Kelli Wells 0448 361 008.