Yarriambiack Shire Council is proposing changes to its ‘unpopular’ glass bin collection service, and is seeking feedback from residents for a sustainable option in the lead-up to the July 1 implementation.

The shire’s glass recycling service started in July 2022, but the November 2023 introduction of the Container Deposit Scheme has seen a drop in the volume of glass collected in the bins.

Mayor Kylie Zanker said council was looking to transition from kerbside collection to a drop-off bin service in each community.

“Council would like to reiterate that it remains committed to the separation of glass from other recyclables and will continue to support a separate glass service, however, we need to look at a more viable and sustainable option of collection into the future,” she said.

“Given the reduction of glass being collected as a result of the Container Deposit Scheme, council is now seeking feedback from the community about the future operation of the service.”

Council is presenting two options to residents: to retain the current kerbside glass collection provided every two months; or move to a glass drop-off bin in each community. 

Council is also seeking feedback from residents regarding a move to a food and garden organics collection service. The State Government has mandated council must implement a kerbside Food Organics and Garden Organics, FOGO, service by July 1, 2027. 

Three options have been identified by council for consideration: weekly FOGO service; fortnightly FOGO; or households seeking an exemption as they already compost at home. 

Food and garden organic waste cannot be disposed of in the general waste or mixed recycling bins. Organic garden waste can still be dropped off at council transfer stations.

Residents can complete the survey relating to both the proposed changes to kerbside glass collection and kerbside Food Organics and Garden Organics by visiting www.yarriambiack.vic.gov.au/Engage-With-Us/Share-Your-Feedback, or in writing to the Chief Executive Officer, PO Box 243 Warracknabeal, 3393. Submissions close at 5pm on April 3.

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