Council Launches Battery Recycling Bins Across the Region

Published on 04 September 2024

Goondiwindi Regional Council announces the introduction of battery recycling bins throughout the region. This initiative aims to provide a safe and environmentally friendly solution for disposing of household batteries.

Residents will find battery recycling bins at different locations across the region, making it easy and convenient for everyone to participate in this program. Drop-off locations include:

Town - Locations

Goondiwindi

Waste Facility (available now)
Customer Service Centre in Marshall and McLean Street (coming soon)

Inglewood

Waste Facility (available now)
Inglewood Customer Service (coming soon)

Texas

Texas Customer Service (coming soon)

Yelarbon

Yelarbon Service Station (available now)

Bungunya

Bungunya Transfer Station (available now)

Talwood

Talwood Shop (available now)

Toobeah

Toobeah Transfer Station (available now)

Acting Mayor, Cr Rob Mackenzie emphasised the importance of keeping batteries out of general waste and kerbside bins, “Batteries contain highly toxic chemicals and pose health and safety risks to those handling waste and recycling in our region. Improper disposal can lead to contamination and pose a fire risk in collection trucks and material recovery facilities. A fire in a collection truck or at the dump can have serious consequences.”

A recent fire at the Inglewood Landfill site, caused by batteries disposed of in general waste, highlights the need for proper disposal practices. Residents are encouraged to use the new battery recycling bins to prevent future fires.

“A fire in a collection truck can put the truck out of action for weeks and cause havoc for waste collection across the region. A fire caused by batteries whether it be in a truck or at a landfill site also triggers significant red tape for Council.

“I’d also like to thank the local businesses that kindly agreed to be part of the initiative by accommodating these bins onsite. Council wanted to select locations that were accessible to residents and this was only possible with their support,” Cr Mackenzie said.

The new recycling bins are for household batteries only (smaller than the size of a power tool battery), with the exception of the bin at the Goondiwindi Waste Facility which also accepts laptop and power tool batteries. E-cigarettes are not accepted. To further reduce fire risks, residents must tape the terminals of batteries before placing them in the recycling bins.

This initiative is supported by a partnership with B-Cycle Battery Recycling, ensuring that collected batteries are processed and recycled responsibly.

"The safety and sustainability of our community are paramount. Introducing battery recycling bins assists in mitigating environmental hazards and preventing fires caused by improper battery disposal. We urge all residents to utilise these new bins and contribute to a safer, cleaner Goondiwindi region,” said Cr Mackenzie.

For further details on battery recycling bin locations and additional recycling information, please visit Council’s website - www.grc.qld.gov.au/residents/waste-management/recycling-right

What is an eligible household battery?

Small batteries that have taped positive terminals and are:

Nickel-metal hydride batteries
Nickel cadmium batteries
Button batteries
Alkaline batteries