Council has announced it will expand the operation of its reuse shops at both centres in an effort to support a circular local economy.
At the December council meeting, council awarded a two-year contract to Community Resources Limited (trading as Resource Recovery Australia) following a public expression of interest process.
Reuse Recovery Australia is a not-for-profit social enterprise with experience operating reuse shops for local governments.
The not-for-profit operator expects to create up to nine local jobs across the two sites, with a strong focus on providing employment opportunities for people who face barriers to work, while also delivering affordable reuse options for the community.
“Reuse shops play an important role in supporting both the environment and the community,” Resource Recovery Australia general manager Matt Curtis said.
“Through this partnership with Mitchell Shire Council, we are excited to create local employment and training opportunities for people who face barriers to work, while giving reusable items a second life.
“Our focus is on making reuse easy, accessible and beneficial for the whole community.”
Council says reuse shops play an important role in keeping usable items in circulation, diverting waste from landfill and reducing the environmental impacts associated with producing and disposing of goods.
Mitchell Shire Mayor John Dougall said the expansion delivered practical environmental and community benefits.
“Reuse shops give household goods and materials a second life, helping to cut down on waste and support sustainable living,” he said.
“They are a simple, practical way to support a local circular economy right here in Mitchell Shire.”
The contract is for an initial two-year trial, with an option to extend for a further two years, subject to performance and council needs.
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