Residents are encouraged to clear out their backyards and stock up on free sandbags to continue preparing for the wet season.
The annual wet season free green waste drop-off starts Saturday 15 November, with residents able to drop their domestic green waste at any of Council's waste transfer stations at no cost until Sunday 23 November.
Mayor Amy Eden said that at this time of year, residents needed to be prepared should there be the threat of a cyclone or flooding.
"I encourage everyone to get ready early. Clear your gutters, secure loose items, and trim back trees. Taking simple steps now helps keep your home and community safe when the wet season arrives. We live in the tropics, and being prepared is just part of life in Cairns."
Residents in coastal, low-lying or flood prone areas are also invited to grab free sandbags to use when severe weather threatens the region.
Council's website provides information on storm surge zones, as well as flood maps, which can also be accessed at the Cairns Disaster Dashboard.
Sandbags will be provided for residents to fill with sand on site.
Scoops for filling will be supplied. Sandbags are for residential use only and will be available from all of Council's waste transfer stations until supplies run out.
Sandbags can be stored in a dry place out of direct sunlight for several months.
Residents can make a voluntary gold coin donation at the waste transfer station, which will support the FNQ Wildlife Rescue Association.
Residential green waste can be dropped off free of charge at the following locations:
- Portsmith Transfer Station - 7 days 8.30am to 5.15pm
- Smithfield Transfer Station - 7 days 8.30am to 5.15pm
- Gordonvale Transfer Station - 7 days 8.30am to 5.15pm
- Babinda Transfer Station - 7 days 8:30am to 5:15pm
Note: this offer is for domestic cars, utilities and/or trailers and light trucks (vehicle weight to GVM 4.5 tonnes). Normal rates apply for disposal of any other waste during this period, including green waste from garden maintenance contractors on behalf of residents.
