During a visit to the icon beach last Wednesday, Keep Australia Beautiful NSW manager Rosemary Hadaway said the Ulladulla district had stunning beaches cared for by dedicated community groups.

She was in the area encouraging beach users to enter their favourite beach in this year’s Clean Beach Challenge.

With submissions already being prepared for Mollymook, Ulladulla Harbour and Rennies Beach, Mrs Hadaway said she would like to see entries from beaches around Bendalong, Narrawallee and Bawley Point.

“I understand in many small villages, people like to keep their beaches a secret, but it would be great for some of these communities to enter the awards.

“The challenge is not based on cleanliness alone, it takes into account the public facilities and amenities, natural environment and community involvement,” she said.

Ms Hadaway met with Mollymook Surf Club member Keith Claxton and Shoalhaven City Councillor Robert Miller who informed her about Mollymook’s facilities such as mobi matting to allow disabled access to the water and the recent installation of a solar powered hot water system.

Cr Miller also explained that council was considering extending the paid lifeguard service until Easter.

Ms Hadaway said she was not judging beaches during her trip but was catching up with past entrants and exploring the region.

“This is a beautiful area and I would really encourage more beaches to enter.

“Any community group or beach user is welcome to make a submission.

“It’s great for local beaches to be recognised in one of our seven categories.

“Beaches don’t have to be patrolled or structured,” she said.

Mollymook Beach last year took out the South Coast Regional Friendly Beach Award and was Highly Commended in the Overall Clean Beach Award.

In the state challenge, Mollymook was Highly Commended, with the top award taken out by Port Kembla Beach.

Keep Australia Beautiful Clean Beach Challenge entry forms are available online at wwwkabnsw.org.au