High-tech rubbish trucks to share the Western Downs Waste Warrior message across the region

A vibrant fleet of new waste and recycling trucks are hitting the streets of the Western Downs as part of Council's commitment to quality service delivery, and a more sustainable future for the region. ?

The six high-tech waste collection vehicles will be highly visible on the region's roads as they collect residents' recycling and rubbish thanks to the fresh, bright designs decorating the trucks which highlight important waste messages for the community.

Councillor Andrew Smith, Council spokesperson for Planning, Environment and Agribusiness, , said the eye-catching new trucks formed part of Council's waste and recycling collection contract with JJ Richards.

"The new trucks are extremely exciting for the Western Downs, which not only look fresh and fantastic, but will also create efficiencies in the waste collection process and promote significant safety and environmental benefits,” Cr Smith said.

“They are packed with the latest safety features, including on-board cameras for the safety of our residents and drivers, and are also much quieter and more fuel efficient than the trucks they are replacing.

"Over the life of the new contract this new fleet of trucks will save over 3,730 tonnes of carbon in emissions, which will make a huge impact in reducing our carbon footprint and protecting the natural beauty of the Western Downs.

"Council is committed to proactive, sustainable planning for the future of our region, and this revitalised fleet ensures we continue to provide quality essential services for our region.”

Mayor Paul McVeigh said everyone had a role to play in ensuring that our household rubbish is processed or disposed of properly, and the new trucks would help spread awareness of this important issue.

"The new waste trucks won't just make waste collection easier and more efficient, they’re also designed to promote the importance of disposing of household waste responsibly,” Cr McVeigh said.

“The new trucks have bright, eye-catching graphics on them showing us the types of waste the truck is collecting, and how we can keep our vibrant communities beautiful.

"Together we can save recyclable materials from being needlessly thrown into landfill, and also reduce recycling contamination by ensuring that non-recyclable items are placed in the general waste bin.

"Our rubbish trucks travel the equivalent of more than eight times around the world each year. When we see these new waste collection vehicles on their routes all around our region they will serve as a timely reminder of these important messages.

"As we always say, on the Western Downs 'it's the people that make it'. When it comes to placing our recycling and general waste in the correct kerbside bins, this is particularly true. We can all be Western Downs Waste Warriors and help keep our region beautiful."

To find out more about Western Downs Regional Council's waste and recycling programs, including waste collection, disposal and recycling, visit wdrc.qld.gov.au/Services-Payments/Waste.

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