Don't Waste Townsville :: Don't Waste Magnetic Island __________________________________________

“Don’t Waste Magnetic Island” is the next drill down of the “Don’t Waste Townsville” program.

This campaign is far more diverse and complex than previous campaigns as we will be rolling out the strategy in concert with other waste management initiatives on Magnetic Island over a twelve months period.

In February 2005, Council’s released the “Magnetic island Solid Waste Management Plan” (MISWMP) which is a blue print for future waste management on the Island. The plan took into account, waste generation, collection services, disposal pathways, methods of waste minimisation, resource recovery, regulated and special waste infrastructure, management systems, monitoring and provided twenty eight recommendations on future directions. Outcomes of that report have included;

The twenty eight recommendations of the Magnetic Island Solid Waste Management Plan (MISWMP) have been reviewed and allocated to responsible sections for attention. Time frames have not been adjusted at this stage, but will as further information comes to hand regarding implementation.
To assist in implementing the operational considerations of the MIWMP, an integrated works action plan has been commissioned. This plan will assist in an implementation schedule for a large amount of operational considerations concerned with the Picnic Bay refuse tip along with providing costs for the project.
Surveyors have conducted a volumetric measurement of the existing Picnic Bay tip. This information is being used to provide an up to date estimate of the future life of the tip.
A transportation study has been commissioned to determine the exact cost of transporting waste from Magnetic Island to the mainland for disposal.
A study has been commissioned on a comparison of existing contract collection service vs a Citiwaste day labour service. Current waste contract expires in September 2006.
MISWMP identifies that a refuse transfer station will need to be placed on the Island. Contractors are currently researching the best location for this facility on the island and a design estimate of the final facility.

The MISWMP identified that fees will be charged for tipping at the Picnic Bay refuse tip and that the tip may function for a reduced number of hours. A media consultant has been engaged to seek public consultation on these issues. The consultant has also been requested to gather information on the public conception regarding the reduction of plastic bags on the island and views on the alternatives that are available. This work has been funded in the 05 / 06 budget.

Don't Waste Magnetic Island Poster

Litter bins numbers and placement on the island have been reviewed and reassessed. Public place recycling bins are currently being made and will be installed early in 20065
A strategic approach to rolling out the MISWMP under and in conjunction with the “Don’t Waste Magnetic Island” concept is occurring.
Posters have been developed and have been distributed throughout the island at all community notice boards, accommodation premises and transport hubs.
Billoard sites are currently being identified.
See the Don't Waste Magnetic Island Billboard in the Billboard section.
A community newsletter has been developed and distributed to all premises on the island in relation to what is occurring with this campaign.
Investigation into developing Magnetic Island as a “plastic bag free” environment. This would fit in with the environmental focus of the island.