Magnetic Island waste facility opens gates to residents
Date published: 9 October 2015
Gates to the new Magnetic Island waste facility will swing open this weekend with residents invited to see the completed project for the first time.
Townsville Mayor Jenny Hill will officially open the facility at West Point Road from 9.30-11am this Saturday, October 10.
"We’ve worked closely with Magnetic Island residents on this project and this is a great outcome for the community and the future of the island," Cr Hill said.
Waste and Water Committee chair Cr Ray Gartrell said the $8 million facility was integral to the future waste management of the island.
"Initially the facility will work in conjunction with the existing Picnic Bay landfill which is nearly at capacity, but residents are directed to take waste to the new facility hereon in," Cr Gartrell said.
"Once the Picnic Bay landfill is full, we will begin transferring waste off the island where it will be processed at the Stuart Landfill.
"Council has invested heavily in the island’s waste management and this new waste facility will ensure benefits for the local community well into the future."
Councillor Vern Veitch said the new facility met the island’s infrastructure needs while protecting the unique environment of Magnetic Island.
"Most of Magnetic Island is national park, so conserving the island and its habitat is a top priority for council," Cr Veitch said.
"This project will ensure we keep the island pristine, while taking care of the residents’ waste needs."
The project included a widening of West Point Road plus improvements to the Hurst and Yule St intersection leading into the facility.
The timing of the opening means residents will be able to take their green and domestic waste directly to the new facility over the council’s free dumping days - October 30 to November 2.
