Waste angst in Edward River

And due to the increased costs, incidences of and concerns around dumping of rubbish in public spaces have increased.

Many have been taking to social media as a way of expressing their frustrations.

“The new bin system is an absolute joke - red bins are not working, especially for business owners ... Um, 3 x bin changes per day, does not work for general bin collection per fortnight!,” one social media user said.

“The red lid bin should have been weekly. Where I’ve lived previously had red lid bins always weekly while yellow and green lid bins were fortnightly,” another wrote.

“I got the shock of my life, how do they expect pensioners to pay this outrageous rise,” said another.

Council has said that the tip fees contribute to future landfill use and are aligned with the implementation of the three bin system, which is designed to reduce reliance on landfill.

It said access to the recycling service at the Deniliquin landfill will remain free.

“Tip fees provide revenue to ensure the continued operation, maintenance and EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) compliance of waste facilities, and prevent them from becoming a financial burden for future generations,” a council spokesperson said.

“Remediation costs for landfill sites are substantial and continue for up to 30 years post-closure.

“Notably, the implementation of the new three bin system will mean that most Deniliquin residents will rarely need to visit the landfill.

“Landfill gate fees are set in line with industry standards as part of a user-pays system designed to promote recycling and reuse.

“To further encourage sustainable waste practices, recycling and reuse services remain free at the landfill.”

To give an overview, council provided the Pastoral Times with two fact sheets of approximate fees for general waste and green waste.

“All fees are approximate, based on 2024-25 fee of $24 per m³ for general waste and mixed and $8.50 per m³ for green waste,” the fact sheet read.

“Costs for businesses are as follows: Commercial and industrial $83/cubic metre ($45/m³ if over 1000m³ annually), construction and demolition $126/m³, green waste $8.5/m³.”

In rural areas of Edward River Council, where kerbside waste collection is not provided, ratepayers continue to have free access to their local landfill.

Council has also confirmed that a certain number of free waste disposal days will be offered at the Deniliquin landfill.

“General waste disposal remains free for rural residents from Blighty, Pretty Pine, Booroorban, Wanganella and Conargo.

“The next free waste disposal weekend at Deniliquin Landfill Depot is in September, which is available to all Edward River Council residents.”

“Free waste disposal dates can be found at www.edwardriver.nsw.gov.au/Services/Rubbish-Bins-and-Recycling/Landfills-and-Transfer-Stations.”

The fortnightly collection of red bins have been a concern for businesses, and early education and care providers in particular.

With nappies and similar items having to go in the domestic waste bins, they say it is unsanitary to leave them in the bins for two weeks.

The only solutions offered so far would require affected businesses to incur yet another cost.

“Under the Local Government Act, the council is responsible for managing residential domestic waste, which may include small businesses generating waste equivalent to domestic levels,” council said.

“As such, the three bin system is designed specifically for domestic/residential use and may not be suitable for businesses with different waste management needs.

“Commercial businesses do have the option to order a second set of bins at an additional cost.

“Commercial businesses with more specific requirements are advised to engage a private waste contractor or utilise landfill services as necessary.”

While some residents have complained on social media about being surprised by the increase to rates and the user-pays fees at the tip site, council said it was advertised during the budget process on multiple channels - social media, traditional print and radio media and at the budget roadshow meetings.

Those who still need assistance understanding the new waste system can speak directly to Anna from the ‘Green Team’ at Edward River Library in Deniliquin each Tuesday between 10am and noon, or by calling 5898 3000.

You can also learn more about the system via the ‘services’ tab at www.edwardriver.nsw.gov.au, or by going to www.halvewaste.com.au.