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Council awards waste contractsThe Bass Coast Shire Council has been awarded contracts for the Shire’s Waste Collection Service and Waste Facility Management and Operation Services. Read more information about the new contracts and the two new services introduced. By news@gippsland - 25th July 2016 - Back to News Bass Coast Shire Council awarded contracts for the Shire’s Waste Collection Service and Waste Facility Management and Operation Services in the closed session of the July Ordinary Meeting in Cowes last night.
Current service provider and local Bass Coast business, Wonthaggi Recyclers Pty Ltd, was awarded the contract for waste services (kerbside collection, litter bins and hard waste collection) and operations of Council’s transfer stations at Wonthaggi and Inverloch.
Ace Environmental Pty Ltd was awarded the contact for the operations of Council’s Grantville landfill and transfer station. Both contracts have a combined value of approximately $6.6 million per year for a 10 year period.
The decision was made in a closed session of Council due to confidentiality around contractual matters.
The commencement of the new contract will introduce two new services, the first being a resale shop at the Wonthaggi transfer station, and the second, being the introduction of a three-bin service.
New three-bin service
The commencement of the new contract in September 2017 will include the introduction of a three-bin system made up of a 240 litre weekly kitchen food and garden organics collection (including kitchen caddy); a 240 litre fortnightly recycling collection; and a 120 litre fortnightly residual waste (garbage) collection.
The additional cost to ratepayers of $51 means the service will be less than $1 per week for each household.
The volume of waste in the general garbage bin for most households is expected to be reduced by up to 72 per cent, and would not include perishable food waste, therefore not omitting odour.
The organics and green waste bin will also be of use to households who already compost their own food scraps, as items that can’t be composted can be disposed of in the organics bin, such as bread, meat products (including seafood and bones), dairy products, and tissues and paper towels.
For residents concerned about nappies being collected in waste bins fortnightly, odours can be omitted by wrapping a nappy in itself and placing it in a biodegradable bag before disposing of it.
Council will undertake an education campaign leading into the three-bin service to teach residents how to use the system, and options to responsibly dispose of items such as medical waste and nappies.
The introduction of an organics and greenwaste bin will reduce Council’s annual EPA Landfill Levy costs by over $127,000 and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by over 2,600 tonnes of CO2 every year. It will also reduce landfill space by approximately 5,400m3 and over 4,000 tonnes of organic waste will also be removed from kerbside garbage per year.
Strategic outcomes
The contract appointment is consistent with the strategic objectives proposed in both the Council Plan 2013-17 and the Waste Management Strategy 2015-25.
The Council Plan 2013-2017 has a number of strategies and indicators that the three-bin system will address, including the reduction of:
- council generated carbon emissions
- waste to landfill and improve public awareness and responsibility for waste minimisation
- municipal waste to landfill and increase percentage recycled
The Waste Management Strategy 2015-25 has an action to undertake a feasibility study for the provision of a three-bin kerbside collection, including the addition of a green organics bin collection and inclusion of kitchen organics.
An ‘Organic Options Analysis Study’ was completed and adopted by Council in February 2016, recommending that subject to the outcome of the tender process, Council introduces this new service.
This Study considered the previous green waste trial that was conducted on Phillip Island and the potential for green waste to be collected under a number of options.
The tender process allowed Council to test the market and obtain the information required to assess what the cost is to collect and transport the material and how the material is to be managed and disposed.
Tender evaluation process
As part of Council’s commitment to good governance, Council appointed a Probity Advisor to the Tender Evaluation Panel to ensure that the tender process was truly open and competitive, promoted fairness, consistency and transparency.
Managing Partner from Vigilance Australia, Dan Pironti participated in the evaluation, provided advice and was ultimately satisfied with Council’s process.
"In my view, probity was acceptable and the process that was followed resulted in a fair and competitive outcome for Council," Mr Pironti said.
"The Tender Evaluation Panel successfully assessed both the Waste Collection Service and the Waste Facility Management and Operation Services tenders for compliance with the specification, the conditions of tendering and against the evaluation criteria."
Furthermore, as this is a significant investment and mindful of the upcoming Local Government Election Caretaker period, Council wrote to Minister for Local Government The Hon Natalie Hutchins MP in May asking that she advise Council if she had any concerns regarding the tendering processes that have been undertaken.
Council was pleased to receive verbal confirmation from the Minister’s office that the Minister did not have any concerns regarding the process.
Bass Coast Mayor, Cr Jordan Crugnale was pleased to see the tender outcome reflected a rigorous process and resulted in good value for the community with a local business appointed.
"The tender submitted by Wonthaggi Recyclers Pty Ltd will provide Council with the best value for money offer, and they have demonstrated their capacity and capability to undertake the service required under the contract," Cr Crugnale said.
"Although the successful tender was highly competitive with their pricing, it is also pleasing that as a local business, there will be local investment and economic flow-on benefits into our community.
"This is also the case for Ace Environmental Pty Ltd. A competitive price was submitted and they have the knowledge and capacity to undertake the works required at the Grantville landfill site, with many of the contractor employees also living locally in Bass Coast."
Phillip Island waste facility
The Probity Advisor also recommended that due to a limited response to the provisional tender item regarding a new Phillip Island waste transfer station facility, Council should undertake an Expression of Interest (EOI) process specifically for this construction and service, and continue to investigate further options and opportunities for the next six to 12 months.
Council’s CEO, Mr Paul Buckley PSM, said that the decision to continue seeking a suitable proposal, location and service for a waste transfer facility on Phillip Island shows Council is committed to progress this as a priority and leave no stone unturned.
"Based on the level of interest for a waste facility on Phillip Island, and advice from Vigilance Australia, Council will go back out to the market to ensure every effort is made in seeking a suitable expression of interest for a Phillip Island transfer station or waste facility," Mr Buckley said.
"This does not omit the expressions of interest or proposals received to date through the tender process, but due to the limited uptake we could not demonstrate to the community best value for our investment through the tender process. The EOI will provide a bit more time for any other suitable proposals to be submitted and evaluated.
"The EOI process will continue after the appointment of the new Council and commence in the new year. This will ensure appointments can be made well before the commencement of the new waste contracts in September 2017. Council looks forward to getting the best outcome possible for the community," concluded Mr Buckley.
Simone Short
Media Communications Officer
Source: www.gippsland.com Published by: news@gippsland.com
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Latrobe City Council has opened nominations for the 2027 Australia Day Awards and Sporting Hall of Fame, recognising outstanding community contributors and sporting achievers. Entries close September 11, 2026. - East Gippsland Landcare Groups recognised at Victorian Awards celebrating 40 Years of environmental stewardship and community conservation efforts
East Gippsland Landcare groups Moogji Aboriginal Council and FEVL received the First Nations Landcare Collaboration Award, while Romawi Landcare was highly commended for innovation and its ongoing conservation efforts. - Meet the Makers connects local producers, makers and hospitality businesses across Bass Coast and South Gippsland and other council updates
Meet the Makers will connect Bass Coast and South Gippsland producers, makers and hospitality businesses for networking, collaboration and new opportunities. - Gippsland Water backs biochar research to transform biosolids into sustainable soil health and waste management solutions
Gippsland Water is supporting national research into converting wastewater biosolids into biochar, aiming to improve soil health, advance sustainable waste management, and assess contaminant destruction, including PFAS, through innovative recycling. - East Gippsland's new disability network brings diverse community voices together to help shape council decisions and services
East Gippsland’s new Disability Network has attracted 33 expressions of interest, bringing together people with disability, carers, families and sector representatives to help shape Council decisions and improve accessibility. - Have your say on Wellington Shire Draft Urban Paths Plan to improve walking and cycling connections by 8 November 2026
Wellington Shire Council is seeking community feedback on its Draft Urban Paths Plan to improve walking and cycling connections. Residents can complete an online survey from October 12 to November 8, 2026. - East Gippsland coastal management plan gains ministerial approval after extensive community consultation and collaboration across region
East Gippsland's Coastal and Marine Management Plan has received Ministerial Approval, recognising three years of community consultation and providing a shire-wide framework for sustainably managing coastal and marine environments. - Nathan Kearsley and Jill Colson appointed as Baw Baw Shire new directors following recent organisational restructure
Baw Baw Shire Council has appointed Nathan Kearsley and Jill Colson as new directors following a restructure reducing its executive leadership team from five to three. - The Nationals pledge weekly rubbish collection for Gippsland households to ease costs and improve waste services
The Nationals have pledged weekly general rubbish collections across Gippsland, promising to review landfill levies and waste charges to reduce costs and ease pressure on families. - Baw Baw Shire opens applications for artists seeking up to $2,000 grant through Arts and Culture Fund Program, apply by 28 October 2026
Baw Baw Shire is inviting local artists and creatives to apply for up to $2,000 through its Arts and Culture Fund, supporting projects that strengthen creative practice and community participation. - Darren Chester joined Wellington Shire representatives to welcome 57 new citizens at The Wedge ceremony
Wellington Shire welcomed 57 new Australian citizens at The Wedge, with Federal Member Darren Chester and council representatives celebrating their milestone and contributions to Gippsland communities. - Become a Great Southern rail trail passport collection point with other updates from the South Gippsland Shire Council
South Gippsland Council seeks Rail Trail Passport collection points, announces a youth bravery award, Toora roadworks, grants, community events, transport updates, tenders, services and opportunities. - Cr John White recognised for 10 Years of dedicated service representing East Gippsland communities on council
East Gippsland Councillor John White has been recognised for 10 years of service, including two terms as Mayor, advocating for local priorities and representing communities across government levels. - Cowes Freedom of Entry Parade marks 125 years of Australia's Commonwealth Naval Forces and naval service tradition parade on 7 August 2026
Bass Coast Shire Council invites the community to Cowes' Freedom of Entry Parade on August 7, celebrating 125 years of Australia's naval heritage with HMAS Cape Woolamai personnel and the Royal Australian Navy Band. - Supercars Championship returns to Phillip Island in 2027 following Victorian government multi-year contract announcement
Bass Coast Shire Council has welcomed the Supercars Championship return to Phillip Island in 2027 under a Victorian Government multi-year contract, supporting regional tourism and economic transition following MotoGP and World Superbikes departures. - Latrobe City Children’s Expo offers free family fun, activities and community services at Kernot Hall in Morwell on 27 October 2026
Latrobe City Council will host a free Children’s Expo at Kernot Hall, Morwell, on October 27, featuring entertainment, activities, food vendors and community services for families. - Baw Baw book boxes bring free children’s books and reading opportunities to communities across Drouin, Longwarry and Warragul
Baw Baw Shire Council and Drouin Men’s Shed have installed community book boxes across Drouin, Longwarry and Warragul, offering free children’s books while encouraging literacy, reading and family connections. - Regional hospitals face staffing and funding pressures as new nurse-to-patient ratios take effect across Gippsland health services
East Gippsland Shire Council is installing two louvered roofs at Bairnsdale Library, improving shade, weather protection and outdoor activities, with works expected to take two weeks. - East Gippsland targets Canberra visitors in new Spring Tourism Campaign, destination marketing and supporting local businesses
East Gippsland Shire Council has launched a Canberra-focused spring tourism campaign, testing evidence-led marketing strategies while attracting shoulder-season visitors and supporting local businesses through targeted promotion. - Becon Constructions awarded $21M contract to build Baw Baw Culture and Connection Precinct library and learning centre
Becon Constructions has secured a $21 million contract to deliver Warragul new Library and Learning Centre, part of Baw Baw Shire $30 million Culture and Connection Precinct, expected to open in early 2028. - New Lakes Entrance fire station prioritised ahead of 2026 state election
Council is urging the Victorian government to fund a new Lakes Entrance CFA station, replacing the 90-year-old facility to improve emergency response, safety, capacity and regional resilience. - East Gippsland planning roadshow brings expert advice to Mallacoota residents, improving access to local services
East Gippsland Shire Council's Planning Roadshow will visit Mallacoota on August 17, offering residents face-to-face planning advice, permit guidance and access to the new AI-powered myLot planning tool. - Draft Omeo District Place Plan released for after 10 months of consultation for final community feedback until 2 October 2026
East Gippsland Shire Council has released the draft Omeo District Place Plan for feedback, prioritising health, education, housing, employment, social connection, environmental care and emergency preparedness. Submissions close October 2. - East Gippsland simplifies footpath permit fees, reducing costs for businesses while supporting safe, vibrant, accessible town centres
East Gippsland Shire Council has introduced a simplified, tiered Goods on Footpath permit fee structure, reducing costs for many businesses while supporting vibrant town centres and maintaining safe, accessible public spaces. - Have your say on the Planning Scheme Amendment C161egip - Lakes Entrance Northern Growth Area (Revised) to unlock growth until 21 September 2026
East Gippsland Shire Council is simplifying planning controls in Lakes Entrance Northern Growth Area, aiming to unlock housing growth, reduce red tape and support development over the next 30-plus years. - Marlo's Healeys road timber bridge to be replaced with stronger steel structure built for 100 years
East Gippsland Shire Council will replace Marlo’s ageing Healeys Road timber bridge with a $642,780 steel structure, improving safety, access, load capacity and long-term reliability for local users. - South Gippsland residents invited to shape future heritage precincts across four townships through community consultation
South Gippsland Shire Council is inviting residents across Loch, Fish Creek, Toora and Korumburra to help shape and protect their townships' unique heritage character. - Latrobe City encourages community conversations and support during Gambling Harm Awareness Week 2026
Latrobe City Council will host free events from 24 to 31 October for Gambling Harm Awareness Week 2026, helping residents recognise gambling harm, explore support services and start conversations with family, friends and neighbours. - Latrobe City endorses draft Moe Activity Centre Plan to guide future town centre growth and development
Latrobe City Council endorsed the draft Moe Activity Centre Plan for public exhibition, outlining long-term CBD growth, planning reforms, improved public spaces and transport, with Planning Scheme Amendment C155 exhibition proposed for late 2026. - Latrobe City completes major lighting upgrade across all 10 courts at Agnes Brereton Reserve, boosting netball opportunities
Latrobe City Council has upgraded all 10 courts at Agnes Brereton Reserve with 200-lux lighting, enabling extended evening use, expanded competitions and training for Traralgon Netball Association 1,400 annual participants. - Moe Town Hall seeks resident organisation to activate historic venue through regular community arts programs until 30 September 2026
Latrobe City Council has opened expressions of interest for an organisation to establish an ongoing residency at Moe Town Hall, delivering regular arts, cultural and community activities while keeping the venue accessible. - Latrobe City extends Phoenix partnership, securing NBL matches and delivering sporting, community and economic benefits
Latrobe City Council has extended its partnership with South East Melbourne Phoenix, securing two NBL matches across the next two seasons, delivering elite sport, community engagement and economic benefits. - Live and Loud at GPAC brings AFL Grand Final action, family fun and entertainment to Traralgon on 26 September 2026
Latrobe City Council will host Live and Loud at GPAC on September 26, featuring family activities, entertainment, a ticketed musical-acrobat performance and free live screening of the 2026 AFL Grand Final. - Latrobe City launches Forestree platform showcasing 63,000 public trees across urban and rural townships
Latrobe City Council has launched Forestree, an interactive platform showcasing more than 63,000 public trees, 600 species and ongoing tree planting, watering and maintenance efforts. - Latrobe City pushes for fair community benefits, transparent water pricing and long-term investment as Yallourn Mine rehabilitation progresses
Latrobe City Council has urged fair community reinvestment, transparent water pricing and long-term funding certainty as EnergyAustralia seeks water entitlement for Yallourn Mine rehabilitation. - Venus Bay IRB Women's Rescue Team, Morrie Tatnell and Jessica Woodward recognised as one of the winners for the Life Saving Victoria Awards of Excellence 2026
Life Saving Victoria celebrates volunteer lifesavers, aquatic professionals and organisations at Awards of Excellence, recognising outstanding contributions to keeping Victoria’s waterways safe. - Westdale Kindergarten flood update on repairs, temporary arrangements and term one 2027 reopening plans for families
Westdale Kindergarten was severely flooded on 3 October 2026. Council and the Department of Education are coordinating repairs, temporary learning arrangements and a safe reopening, prioritising Term One 2027. - Labor invests $120,000 to modernise Traralgon Library with new study pods and improved community spaces
Harriet Shing joined Latrobe City Mayor Cr Gibson and councillors to announce a $120,000 library upgrade, jointly funded by government and council - Gippsland commuters stranded after V/Line services end early, prompting calls for reliable regional rail services
Melina Bath criticised Gippsland rail disruptions after AFL fans were stranded following an early service cutoff, calling for reliable regional transport and promising 1,110 additional seats on Traralgon and Bairnsdale services. - Better Place Australia opens new Traralgon office to expand family support services across Gippsland amid rising community needs
Better Place Australia has opened a new Traralgon office to expand family support services across Gippsland, addressing challenges including family separation, violence, financial stress and child vulnerability. - Mobile Service Centres bringing government support across South Gippsland communities an August and September
Australian government Mobile Service Centres will visit 12 South Gippsland communities, offering Medicare, Centrelink, myGov and Veterans’ Affairs assistance, with accessible facilities and Wi-Fi.
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