Parkes Shire residents turned their unwanted items into cash on the annual Garage Sale Trail last November, extending the life of over 8,478 pre-loved items, 42% of which would otherwise have gone to landfill.
Results of a recently released report by Garage Sale Trail and Taverner Research Group highlighted the outcomes of the waste reduction initiative made possible by Parkes Shire Council and the NSW Environment Protection Authority (NSW EPA). It showed a win-win for locals, with the average garage sale organiser taking home $499 and shoppers saving money too with access to cheaper, second-hand products.
Parkes Shire Council's Acting Director of Infrastructure & Sustainability, Mr Graeme Bayliss, said the research highlighted the local community's commitment to reduce waste.
"Programs like Garage Sale Trail are important in shifting perceptions of second-hand and getting more people reusing items rather than sending them to landfill," Mr Bayliss said.
Across Parkes Shire over 2,700 people participated in the two big weekends of garage sales which aim to provide a fun way for residents to reduce waste, make some money and get to know their neighbours.
Looking across the state, 132,691 people participated in the council-powered circular economy event in NSW, with over 320,000 pre-loved items sold and $1.6 million generated for the local economy.
"Now more than ever, we need to work together to drive a circular system of recycling, repairing and reusing. Garage Sale Trail is a great example of how local efforts can drive powerful social, economic and environmental benefits," said NSW EPA Executive Director of Programs and Innovation, Alexandra Geddes.
"It's fantastic to see Parkes Shire local communities coming together, giving unwanted items a second life and proactively contributing to the State's circular shift."
With an 18% increase in the number of people shopping second-hand over the two big weekends, organisers say it's likely the rising cost of living is driving an increasing appetite for second-hand.
"More and more people are looking for ways to generate some extra cash or save money on everyday items. Buying and selling second-hand is one easy way we can all do this, whether it's hosting a garage sale or selling items online", said Barbara Gill, General Manager of Garage Sale Trail.
Locals keen to clear out and cash in can now register their interest in the 2025 event, which takes place on 8-9 & 15-16 November, at www.garagesaletrail.com.au
