These were the words of CityServe chairman Rick Prosser in launching this year's CityServe Lake Macquarie initiative.

This is the third time the council has collaborated with CityServe, businesses and the local community to clean up community parks, halls, childcare centres and sportsgrounds in the city.

Last year, about 600 volunteers completed more than 25 projects across the city as part of CityServe Lake Macquarie, and they did an incredible job.

This year, the council is again calling for volunteers to help out with gardening, paving, painting and odd jobs at many of the city's schools, community centres, playgrounds and sporting fields.

Together, CityServe teams will improve areas right across the city, with events happening from as far south as Caves Beach and Swansea, to west of the lake at Fennell Bay and Cooranbong, and throughout central Lake Macquarie.

Local churches and community organisations have already registered volunteer teams for specific projects, and individuals are also encouraged to register.

Anyone can volunteer their time and skills, and I am looking forward to rolling up my sleeves in the gardens of Kahibah Public School.

Visit CityServe.com.au for a full list of CityServe Lake Macquarie projects or to register to volunteer.