Towong Shire Council has unveiled forthcoming modifications to its waste management service, slated to commence in June 2024. In accordance with state directives aiming for enhanced waste management by 2030, the council will roll out a revamped system categorizing waste into four distinct groups: recyclables, food and garden organics (FOGO), glass containers, and landfill waste.
Beginning June 3, the council will initiate a ‘three-bin’ collection service in collaboration with Cleanaway to oversee waste collection operations. Residents will be furnished with a new green-lidded bin, accompanied by a kitchen caddy and a supply of liners, ahead of the service’s inauguration. Additionally, a calendar outlining bin collection days will be provided to households.
Towong Mayor, Cr Andrew Whitehead, stressed the significance of community input in shaping this endeavour. “We sought to grasp community priorities concerning environmental sustainability and financial implications, ensuring that the new service aligns with community needs to the fullest extent possible,” he remarked. “We believe that these changes will not only streamline waste collection processes but also advance our community’s sustainability objectives.”
Acknowledging the diverse waste management practices of rural property owners, particularly concerning food and garden organics, the council is extending an opt-out provision for the FOGO service to residents in the Rural Zone. “We understand that many rural property owners already employ practices for on-site management of food and garden organics and therefore may not require a green-lidded bin,” Cr Whitehead noted. “Residents in the Rural Zone who wish to opt-out must notify the council by Monday, May 20, 2024.”
Residents can opt-out by completing online forms, sending emails, or mailing responses to the council. Alternatively, they can provide their preference over the phone to the Customer Service team.
Information detailing bin collection schedules and waste sorting guidelines will be disseminated to residents through various channels, including the council’s website, local newspapers, social media platforms, and e-newsletters.
For further inquiries or assistance, residents are encouraged to contact the council’s Customer Service team.
