Speaking at the launch of the campaign on Tuesday, Lord Mayor Gordon Bradbery said this year's Rise and Shine was a chance for the community to set a new benchmark for the annual clean-up.

In 2019, 112 community groups were involved in clean-ups around Wollongong and 13.4 tonnes of rubbish was collected.

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Cr Bradbery said he looked forward to hearing more about the contributions being made in 2020. He said volunteers did amazing work helping keep the environment clean every year.

"This is a reflection of the pride so many have for this beautiful part of the world," he said. Rise and Shine is one of the longest-running environmental programs in the nation.

Cr Bradbery said the work of passionate volunteers counteracted the activities of people who took less pride in Wollongong and its natural environment.

It was decided to focus the 2020 campaign launch on Lake Illawarra because of the amount of rubbish which ended up there after being washed down creeks.

"We want to keep that in pristine condition and keep as much rubbish out as possible," he said. "Especially plastics. We live in a very beautiful part of the world and it needs to be protected."

Planning is underway for activities that will allow more people to participate as volunteers while following NSW Public Health Orders and social distancing guidelines.

Council's website has information about registrations and clean-up locations. As well as guidelines to follow. Volunteers can also contact Customer Service on (02) 4227 7111 for advice and information.

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