The Port Macquarie Hastings is once again on the map for Australia's biggest secondhand treasure hunt. Garage Sale Trail is returning over two weekends next month, on 8–9 and 15–16 November (Saturday and Sunday).
Residents are encouraged to sign up for free and host their own garage sale. Registered sellers will appear on the national Garage Sale Trail map and receive free promotional materials including signs and buntings as well as tips and how-to guides to help make their sale a success.
"Selling or shopping at a garage sale is a simple action we can all take to reduce our impact on the planet," Port Macquarie Hastings Council (PMHC) Waste Officer Corrine de Mestre said. "Forty-five per cent of carbon emissions come from how we make, consume and dispose of everyday items, so something as easy as reusing or rehoming a pre-loved item really does make a difference."
In 2024, Port Macquarie Hastings residents made their mark on the national leaderboard, with around 23,000 items sold or purchased, equivalent to 13 tonnes of goods kept out of landfill. The local average sale was around $500 per garage.
Nationwide, more than 297,000 Australians participated in the event, selling and buying over 755,000 items. This is the environmental equivalent of taking 1,050 cars off the road or saving enough water to fill 38 swimming pools.
Ms de Mestre added, "Garage Sale Trail is a great way to discover hidden gems near you but it's also about bringing people together, promoting community spirit and doing something good for our planet by making reuse the new normal."
This year, those without a garage or are simply keen to be part of the fun can join PMHC's community car boot sale at the Grant St carpark, next to the Port Macquarie Library, on Sunday 16 November, from 10am to 1pm. Spots are limited and booking is required.
