Goondiwindi Gets Recycling-Smart: Council's Mailout Boosts Bin Know-How

Last week, crucial recycling updates arrived in mailboxes across the Goondiwindi region. While recycling rates have seen a commendable 3.35% increase in recent months, Goondiwindi Regional Council acknowledges there's still room for improvement. Council hopes that initiatives like this mailout will further support correct recycling practices.

"It's more than just environmental benefits when it comes to recycling right," remarked Cr Rob Mackenzie, portfolio holder of Waste, Regulatory Services and Planning. "One contaminated yellow lid bin can spoil an entire truckload of recycling, resulting in thousands of dollars in costs for residents."

Cr Mackenzie further explained, "The Queensland Government has set specific targets for our Council regarding recycling and waste management. Increased landfill usage triggers additional levies imposed by the state government, which Council must pass on to ratepayers."

Included in the information pack were two stickers: a smaller one for indoor bins or fridges and a larger UV-protected sticker for residents' yellow lid wheelie bins.

"These stickers serve as excellent reminders on proper recycling practices," stated Cr Mackenzie. "Items such as food scraps, clothes, nappies, and plastic bags should not be placed in yellow lid bins. Unfortunately, our contractor frequently finds these items in recycling bins, leading to landfill diversion for the entire contents."

The mailout also informed residents about changes to polystyrene recycling. With the Challenge Recycling Facility in Narrabri not processing polystyrene, residents must now dispose of it in the red lid bin.

"We deeply appreciate residents' efforts to recycle correctly," expressed Cr Mackenzie. "This financial year, we've allocated over $3 million to waste management, funding projects such as increased recycling bin capacity at the Inglewood Waste Transfer site, battery recycling options coming soon, and this mailout."

Given that replacing a landfill costs millions, extending the lifespan of current landfills by minimising waste is paramount. Currently, the Goondiwindi region generates between 450 and 500 tonnes of general waste per month. Increasing recycling and ensuring its accuracy are among the simplest ways to reduce this figure.

Cr Mackenzie emphasised, "We're ensuring our residents are equipped with the information and resources to minimise their impact on landfills. However, if they're unsure whether something should be recycled, their best option is to leave it out."

"One small item in a landfill is preferable to contaminating a whole truckload of recycling."

For further information and to download the recycling calendar for bin days, visit the Goondiwindi Regional Council website at www.grc.qld.gov.au/downloads/file/645/grc---recycling-calendarpdf