Council tips hat to Outlook Tip Shop

Townsville’s beloved Tip Shop is returning in a big way, with Townsville City Council locking in Australia’s largest waste management Social Enterprise – Outlook Australia to operate the Hervey Range facility.

Acting Mayor Ann-Maree Greaney said the exciting news comes as National Recycling week kicks off across the country.

Councillor Greaney said Council had been working behind the scenes for almost 24 months to secure an operator to revive the facility which had been vacant for 2 years after the previous operator passed away.

“The old saying certainly sings true, one person’s trash can be another’s treasure, and it will be welcome news to have Outlook Australia operating a new-look facility for our community,” Cr Greaney said.

“Council understands how important the Tip Shop is to the community as part of the services we provide which is why we’ve been working hard behind the scenes to get this back up and running.

“The way we as a Council deal with waste has certainly changed in the last decade, and today it is all about diverting reusable items and resources away from landfill.

“The Tip Shop is not only a crowd favourite when it comes to a trip to our Hervey Range transfer station, but it really assists in that diversion waste, and of course circular economy practices.

“Not only is the space set to return as a Tip Shop where locals can shop till they drop, but Outlook also plan to have a repair workshop and plant nursery activating the space, which is a really cool addition.

“The revamped facility is anticipated to divert more than 500 tonnes of good quality items away from landfill each year and circulate them back within our community.”

Outlook Australia Executive for Social Enterprise, Callum Ross said as Australia’s largest waste management Social Enterprise, Outlook would provide a space with an amplified focus on connecting with the community.

“This is a huge opportunity to bring real change to Townsville’s waste recovery landscape. This circular economy hub will be a space that not only diverts waste, but fosters jobs, creativity and community pride,” Mr Ross said.

“We’re excited to hit the ground running with Townsville City Council and build something that leaves a lasting legacy.”

Development Manager of Outlook Australia, Danielle Werner said Outlook was excited to bring the facility back to life.

“We’re thrilled to be bringing fresh energy to the Hervey Range Tip Shop. It’s a wonderful opportunity to support the community with affordable preloved goods, local jobs and a renewed focus on sustainability,” Ms Werner said.

The Hervey Range Tip Shop will officially open on 11 December and operate 4 days a week, from Thursday through Sunday, 7:30am to 4:30pm. Outlook Australia will be advertising for a number of local jobs in the coming weeks.