Campaspe Shire Council is preparing for an influx of visitors over the Melbourne Cup long weekend, with additional waste skip bins to be installed at key camping and recreation areas across the shire.
Campaspe Shire Mayor Cr Daniel Mackrell said the extra bins would help manage increased waste generated by campers and visitors enjoying the region's rivers, parks and outdoor spaces.
"Additional skip bins will be available at Echuca East Boat Ramp, Victoria Park, Torrumbarry Roadhouse and Gunbower Recreation Reserve throughout the Melbourne Cup long weekend," Cr Mackrell said.
"These locations are popular destinations for campers and visitors, and the extra facilities will help keep our public spaces clean and enjoyable for everyone."
"It's also a matter of safety for campers, particularly with young children. We don't want them stepping on broken glass or being exposed to other risks as a result of waste being dumped in the wrong places."
Cr Mackrell reminded campers that the bins are intended for camping-related waste only and should not be used for residential rubbish.
"While the bins will be serviced regularly, we ask people not to leave rubbish beside them if they become full. Overflowing waste can create health and safety risks, attract wildlife and detract from the natural beauty of these areas," he said.
Sites will be closely monitored, including through the use of CCTV where appropriate at locations where misuse has previously occurred.
Visitors are encouraged to take any excess waste to one of Council's Resource Recovery Centres, where camping-related waste can be disposed of free of charge. Information on locations and opening hours is available at www.campaspe.vic.gov.au/rrc
Eligible drink containers can also be returned through the Container Deposit Scheme for a 10-cent refund. Collection point locations can be found at cdsvic.org.au/locations
Community members can report illegal dumping in bushland, parks, or other public places directly to EPA Victoria via the 24-hour pollution hotline on 1300 372 842 or online through the EPA Interaction Portal: https://portal365.epa.vic.gov.au/pollution-report-form/
By using the skip bins provided, taking excess waste home or to a local Resource Recovery Centre, and reporting any illegal dumping, everyone can play a part in protecting Campaspe's beautiful communities, rivers, and natural landscapes.
