Australia's biggest environmental community event is now in its 17th year and organisers need your help to target rubbish that continues to clog our parks, roadsides, bushland, beaches and waterways.

Clean Up Australia Chairman and Founder, Ian Kiernan AO, says that as long as rubbish continues to turn up in the environment we must all work together to clean it up.

"Participating is easy and fun and the day is an opportunity for us all to experience the positive contribution we can make to the environment. Get involved and don't let rubbish become part of the scenery. Make March 5 the day you start to make a difference," said Mr Kiernan.

Dawn Engel of the Hawks Nest/Tea Gardens Progress Association said it's not too late to get involved. Volunteers are urged to come and help out at the Old Library in Hawks Nest. Just turn up on the day with gloves, a hat, sturdy shoes, sunglasses and sunscreen and register as a volunteer.

A clean up of Hawks Nest Village and surroundings will take place. Meet at the Old Library in Booner Street, Hawks Nest, from 8am till 11am. Contact Dawn Engel on 4997 0820 for further details.

To date, there are 54 sites registered in the Great Lakes, an increase from last year. A list of local Clean Up Australia Day sites in your area can be found by visiting www.cleanup.com.au.

As an added incentive, Clean Up Australia is running a competition to say thank you to volunteers on Clean Up Australia Day. By volunteering, you will go in the draw to win two Qantas air tickets to anywhere within Australia to the value of $3,000.

Simply complete the Volunteer Registration Form to enter.

Volunteer Registration Forms will be distributed at clean up sites throughout the country.

Visit www.cleanup.com.au for terms and conditions.