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Writer's pictureGoat Island Marine Reserve

Community and Conservation Shine at Leigh Harbour Clean-Up


On May 5, 2024, Goat Island Dive and Snorkel orchestrated an inspiring clean-up event at Leigh Harbour, underscoring the power of community in marine conservation. The event brought together enthusiastic volunteers who dedicated their time and effort to protect our precious marine environment.



Event Kick-Off

The day commenced at 10:30 am at the Leigh Wharf, where volunteers were warmly welcomed with gazebos and a BBQ setup by the Goat Island Dive and Snorkel team. Adding to the community spirit, Leigh Preschool hosted a delightful sausage sizzle, providing a tasty treat for participants and raising funds for their initiatives​.

Staff member of Goat Island Dive Crew at the Leigh Harbour Clean Up
Photo Credit : Anne Basquin

An Impressive Turnout

The clean-up attracted a remarkable number of participants, including 27 scuba divers, 15 snorkelers, and about 30 volunteers on land. These dedicated individuals worked tirelessly to remove a wide variety of debris from the harbour. Among the items collected were large tires, golf balls, fishing rods, and even an old oven housing an octopus. This collective effort highlighted the significant impact of marine debris on our environment​.


Generous Sponsorship and Prizes

The success of the event was bolstered by the generous support of numerous local businesses, including Clearyak, Sculptureum, Glass Bottom Boat, Sawmill Brewery , MARES, Blue Oceans, These sponsors provided exciting prizes for various categories such as the largest piece of rubbish and the most unusual find. Their contributions added a fun and rewarding element to the hard work of the volunteers​.




Educational Impact

Adults and a kid standing at the Leigh Harbour Clean Up listening to the Goat Island Dive Staff
Photo Credit : Anne Basquin

A particularly heartening aspect of the event was its educational impact on the younger participants. Children had the opportunity to importance of looking after our oceans Reinforcing the message that community actions are crucial for the health of our planet. This hands-on experience was invaluable in fostering a sense of environmental responsibility among the next generation.


A Heartfelt Thank You

We at Goat Island Marine Reserve extend our sincere gratitude to all who participated in the Leigh Harbour clean-up. Your efforts have significantly contributed to preserving our marine ecosystems and raising awareness about the importance of marine conservation.


Photo of the rubbish picked up from diving and snorkelling in Leigh Harbour
Photo Credit : Anne Basquin

Looking Forward

At Goat Island Marine Reserve, we remain committed to supporting and participating in future conservation efforts. We encourage everyone to stay informed about upcoming events and join us in our mission to protect and preserve our beautiful marine environments.



Discover Goat Island Marine Reserve

Goat Island Marine Reserve offers a unique opportunity to explore the underwater world through activities such as diving, snorkeling, and clear kayak tours. Discover the vibrant marine life and stunning underwater landscapes that make Goat Island a must-visit destination. For more information, visit our website -

By highlighting the success of the Leigh Harbour clean-up and the community's role in conservation, this article showcases the importance of collective efforts in protecting marine environments and promotes future engagement in similar initiatives.


Leigh Locals with a Sawmill Brewery Beer standing in front of a Goat Island Dive
Photo Credit : Anne Basquin

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