THERE has been a drop in illegal dumping and less vandalism at waste transfer stations on Russell and Macleay islands since opening hours have been extended.
Mayor Karen Williams said the reduction was undoubtedly due to the presence of operators on site seven days a week.
Council have agreed to extend the hours permanently after a 12-month trial, which was a recommendation of a review of council’s fire management plan.
“After 12 months, feedback is that residents and commercial operators appreciate the convenience of being able to access the waste transfer stations seven days per week,” Cr Williams said.
“The trial was coupled with an education campaign encouraging island residents to stay safe by cleaning up and maintaining overgrown and unkempt properties.”
Cr Mark Edwards said the decision was great news for islanders and would help reduce illegal dumping.
“Unlike on the mainland, if you live on an island you can’t just drive to another transfer station if the closest one is closed,” Cr Edwards said.
“It is costly and time consuming to transport waste off the island to another facility, leading some residents to dump it illegally.
“The extended opening hours and free transfer stations means there are now no excuses for illegal dumping.”
Cr Williams said council would investigate installing new asbestos disposal services at all gated island waste transfer stations after the middle of next year.
“If installed, these bins will allow residents to take up to 10 square metres or 250 kilograms asbestos-containing material and cement sheeting to the transfer stations,” she said.
“The material would need to be double wrapped and sealed in durable, thick plastic in order to be received at the waste transfer station.
“This would mean residents no longer had to transport this material to the mainland transfer stations, saving them time and money.”
