Volunteers take closer look at lake issues

The edges of Lake Tomarata were given a clean-up last month, when residents undertook a Sunday working bee.

About 20 volunteers got involved and used the event to look at issues such as camping, vandalism and litter.

Bags were filled mostly with broken glass and bottles, although syringes and a mattress were also collected.

A Lake Tomarata Management Committee has been formed following a public meeting held in March called to discuss the gradual degradation of the lake. The committee has been tasked with assisting Rodney District Council with the development of a management plan and in resolving management issues. Trevor Bruce, from the Mangawhai Forest Camp, was appointed committee chairman and Marie Alpe is secretary.

Wet, windy weather did not dampen the enthusiasm of Lake Tomarata residents for the Sunday clean-up. Pictured, from left, are John Taylor, Peter Liefting, Alaister Coates, Fiona Barton-Giner, Margaret Fishlock and Geraldine Taylor.