Community Forum brings bright ideas for the future of waste
17 May 2019
Mornington Peninsula Shire’s Waste Forum is being hailed a great success with calls for a bigger and better event next time.
On Saturday 11 May, more than 400 passionate community members gathered at Peninsula Community Theatre to learn about what’s happening in the waste industry; how Council is working to address and improve current waste issues; connect with local community groups and find out how we can all make a difference and protect the environment.
Craig Recaussel from ABC’s War on Waste joined Shire Mayor Councillor Gill and Rob Millard, CEO Metropolitan Waste and Resource Recovery Group, as guest panellists for the community Q&A, answering questions around the future of waste on the Peninsula and across the world.
Mandy Robertson from the Dolphin Research Institute then joined the panel for an in-depth discussion on the local impacts of waste.
Mornington Peninsula Shire Citizen of the Year, Josie Jones opened a community-led afternoon of presentations with local community groups, waste industry representatives and Shire Officers sharing information and advice on areas such as: making your own beeswax wraps; joining a local Beach Patrol Group; composting at home; the upcoming electronic waste ban and much more.
The second Forum of its type to be held by the Shire, this year’s event theme was Our Waste Future and coincides with Council’s development of a new Waste Strategy.
Mayor Gill said the event was positive, inspiring and a real demonstration of community passion.
“This year’s Waste Forum was a fantastic showcase of the great work happening in our community and I’m thrilled with the overwhelming feedback calling for a bigger and grander event next time.
“We’re gathering a lot of strong community input on our new Waste Strategy and improving public understanding of Council’s role in the waste industry.
“Council will continue robust advocacy to all levels of Government while empowering the Peninsula to take action in their own backyard and protect our precious Peninsula environment”, Cr Gill concluded.
Council representative for the Metropolitan Waste and Resource Recovery Forum and Seawinds Ward Councillor Simon Brooks said the Waste Forum demonstrated the strength and passion of Council and community.
Council will continue to advocate for industry change, and residents can share their feedback and ideas for the new Strategy online at: mornpen.vic.gov.au/ourwastefuture.
