No waste for island with new transfer station

Date: Tuesday, 21st July 2009

A state-of-the-art waste transfer station to transport all refuse off Magnetic Island is part of the city’s clean and green approach to waste management and recycling.

Due for completion in late 2010, the waste station will replace the near-capacity Picnic Bay landfill and provide a major boost for the island environment.

Council has allocated $1.5 million this financial year for the design and construction of the waste station on the island.

The new facility will provide all-weather access for residents to drop off waste into a bin system for transport to the mainland for disposal.

The City Budget also sets aside $6 million for domestic waste and kerbside recycling collections, $5 million for general operations at the Vantassel Street, Hervey Range, Jensen and Picnic Bay landfills.

Other highlights include:

•  $190,000 for servicing public litter and recycling bins throughout the city
•  $723,000 on roadside and suburban litter
•  $700,000 processing of green waste
•  $475,000 for general improvements at landfills
•  $10,000 for progressing with electricity generation at Vantassel St.

Environment and Sustainability Committee chairman Cr Vern Veitch said modern and efficient waste management services were important in keeping the city clean and tidy.

“Having highly efficient and reliable waste collections and recycling services are important to every household in the city,” Cr Veitch said.

“Keeping the city clean and attractive is also a big priority. Cleaning public areas and footpaths and maintaining bikeways and median strips are integral in keeping the city looking great.”