Media response - bin safety reminder

Published on 12 July 2024

Response to Yahoo News.

• I saw this post on Facebook by the council and I was hoping to better understand what led to this reminder. Have there been some issues that's prompted the post? I imagine the main reason for doing this would be to stop the lid from flying open in wind. Possibly even to stop cockatoos from getting in. Would I be right in suggesting this? If not, can you clarify why residents might be doing this to begin with? Hoping for a few lines from council about the issue and the proposed solution for a story today. 

Our waste and recycling team often sees residents using items such as bricks, rocks or other heavy items to keep bin lids closed when the bins are placed on the kerb for collection, particularly during windier weather. Other residents have identified birds getting in their bins and scattering rubbish as a reason for placing or affixing items on top of their bins.

The problem with this practice is the risk these heavy items pose to passers-by, collection trucks, damage to bins, and even passing vehicles when the bin is lifted to be emptied, which can cause the heavy item to be flung into the air. Even cable ties break down and our drivers have seen bottles of water become projectiles, flung over the tops of the truck when this happens.

We suggest a bin strap, bin latch or lid gravity lock as the best options for those worried about windy conditions or birds, and we offer our residents a subsidised SafeWaste bin latch for $7.50 each at our customer service offices (recommended retail price is $15).

If you have space in your bin, you can also consider waiting until the next collection week when the weather may be calmer to put your bins out. Another option if you have excess material for your bin is to chat with your neighbours to see if they still have space in their bins on collection day.

ENDS