Nambucca Shire Council recently conducted a trial of reducing the regularity of bins being emptied in parks, reserves and town centres.

The trial aimed to improve the efficiency of the town services operations section which deals with rubbish, litter removal, cleaning toilets and street cleaning.

“The trial was not publicised as we wanted to grasp the amount of waste being generated by the public, and illegal dumping,”  said Paul Gallagher, assistant general manager, Engineering Services.

Peter O’Neil, a member of the Nambucca Lions Club who helps clean the public barbecues in both Anzac and Gordon parks each day, found it difficult to understand the ‘lack of notice’.

“An evaluation should include notification to all stakeholders who keep an area clean or are affected by it,” Peter told the Guardian.

Results of the trial showed that council staff collected an average of 34kg per day of waste across the shire, showing that not all bins were being filled.

Council feels this result allows scope to reduce rubbish collection and free up two staff so that they can focus on other tasks such as cleaning public toilets.

“We won’t be cutting back services during peak seasons, we realise that the area relies heavily on tourism,” Mr Gallagher said.

But shopkeeper Richard Ellis of Coastal Curves Surf Boutique in Nambucca Heads remains unconvinced.

“I appreciate where the council is coming from and understand the need for increased efficiency. However to have overflowing bins in the main street of town is not ideal for visitors and locals alike,” Richard said.

Council is also addressing the problem of bins being filled up with both commercial and household domestic waste.

Fines of $1000 will be issued to anyone who is caught dumping illegally.

“Our rangers have been monitoring waste in bins and four warnings have been sent out. No fines have been issued as yet,” Mr Gallagher said.

Council is also working with community groups in Eungai and Taylor’s Arm who will only put out waste bins for normal collection when they are full.

“This cooperation saves sending a truck to these areas for no reason. If an event is held and we are notified, we will provide a collection service. By working with community groups we hope to improve efficiency,” Mr Gallagher said.

* What do you think? Have your say, email christian.knight@fairfaxmedia.com.au.