REMONDIS Australia helps 24,000 commercial, industrial and government customers meet their waste reduction, recycling and circular economy ambitions.
Our Integrated and Managed Services division is Australia’s largest environmental managed services provider, partnering with our peers to deliver innovative solutions for large organisations and major infrastructure projects.
We rise to the challenge of complex waste streams and ambitious resource recovery goals, and we have the scale and expertise to make a difference. Best of all, we love what we do.
End-to-end waste management
_ Commercial waste management
_ Resource recovery logistics and processing
_ Organics logistics and compost production
_ Hazardous, chemical and liquid wastes
_ Product stewardship schemes
_ De-packaging and product destruction
T 13 73 73 remondis-australia.com.au
An Australian company built on solid foundations.
“OUR CONTINUED SUCCESS DOESN’T COME FROM ONE PERSON OR ONE DEPARTMENT – IT COMES FROM THE COLLECTIVE EFFORTS OF THOSE WHO KNOW OUR BUSINESS FROM THE GROUND UP.”
Taking Australia’s resource recovery to the world stage.
How NSW EPA is turning crisis into opportunity.
Behind the scenes of a company built on people, service, and values.
New system is optimising the composting process.
COAST TO COAST
REMONDIS Australia signs off on a significant acquisition.
SOLID GROUND
New partnership creates a greener solution for concrete.
27 KINGS OF WASTE
Acquisition signals a boost for Australian recycling.
Why vertical integration is the missing link in Australia’s circular economy.
CHANGE
Is this the turning point for battery stewardship?
Melbourne home to nation’s first dedicated Battery-In-Device Shredding (BIDS) plant.
RISE OF THE PHOENIX
Introducing a new track-mounted trommel screen. 42 GIANT SLAYER
Sustainable off-the-road tyre recycling for Australian mines.
44 SMART INVESTMENT
Certified rebuilds – affordable, reliable, and sustainable.
46 DISMISS DUMPING
Waste Response Teams clean up Victorian municipality.
49 DECADES OF TRANSFORMATION
New strategy hailed as 16 years to smarter waste.
LOCAL ACTION, GLOBAL IMPACT
Waste 2025 tackles urgent and complex issues.
Melbourne will be home to the nation’s first dedicated Battery-In-Device Shredding (BIDS) plant.
Knowledge is power From the Editor
While conferences, expos and even awards nights offer invaluable opportunities to connect and build relationships, they also provide a crucial platform for knowledge sharing and learning.
Attendees can explore innovative solutions, emerging trends, and successful strategies being implemented across different regions.
Last month I spent several days at Waste 2025, an annual event highly regarded for bringing together a diverse range of stakeholders and strengthening the voice of the waste management and resource recovery sector.
It’s also a powerful reminder of the expertise, dedication and skill that is driving the industry forward – some of which is highlighted in this edition of Waste Management Review.
We look at a city that has mapped out a 16-year roadmap to smarter waste services and find out how the NSW Environment Protection Authority is encouraging a systemic shift and deeper engagement to transition to a circular economy.
In Melbourne, the transition to a circular economy has taken a significant step forward, with e-waste recycler EcoCycle set to open the nation’s first dedicated Battery-In-Device Shredding plant.
The plant, and the passing of the Product Lifecycle Responsibility Bill which mandates participation in a product stewardship scheme for batteries, is a step in the right direction to put a stop to the dangers of incorrect battery disposal.
We take a closer look at both developments and celebrate two acquisitions that signal a boost for Australian recycling.
And when it comes to Australian recycling, our cover story highlights a home-grown business that staunchly continues to put its faith in people, service and values. With a history stretching back 38 years, Aussie Industries’ growth trajectory speaks volumes about its commitment to service and community, and there’s plenty more to come.
Waste Management Review is available by subscription from the publisher. The rights of refusal are reserved by the publisher
ARTICLES
All articles submitted for publication become the property of the publisher. The Editor reserves the right to adjust any article to conform with the magazine format.
COVER
Cover image: Aussie Industries
COPYRIGHT
Waste Management Review is owned by Prime Creative Media and published by John Murphy.
All material in Waste Management Review is copyright and no part may be reproduced or copied in any form or by any means (graphic, electronic or mechanical including information and retrieval systems) without written permission of the publisher. The Editor welcomes contributions but reserves the right to accept or reject any material. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information, Prime Creative Media will not accept responsibility for errors or omissions or for any consequences arising from reliance on information published. The opinions expressed in Waste Management Review are not necessarily the opinions of, or endorsed by the publisher unless otherwise stated.
Lisa Korycki
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Moving the dial
A global perspective could help propel Australia’s resource recovery sector forward. Last month, leading industry business advocate Rick Ralph represented Australia at the largest gathering of the recycled materials industry in the world.
Changing the tempo significantly in a completely different direction, that’s our intent.”
Rick Ralph, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Australian Resources Recovery Council (ARRC), has made no secret of his ambition to change the narrative around waste and recycling and showcase the industry’s economic value proposition in Australia.
In February 2025, the National Waste and Recycling Industry Council (NWRIC) boldly rebranded to ARRC, a strategic effort to lead by example and change how the industry is perceived by policymakers and the public.
With more than four decades of experience in Australia’s waste and
resource recovery sector, Ralph played a significant role in the formation of NWRIC in 2017, giving the industry a national voice.
Since taking the reins as CEO in 2022, he has been advocating to the government about key national issues and opportunities for the sector. He said the rebrand to ARRC aims to highlight the sector’s economic value, showcasing its contribution of more than 47,000 jobs and $7 billion in income.
The goal is to “change the conversation from doom and gloom targets to a more positive narrative about material input in supply chains, manufacturing and economic benefits”.
In May, Ralph and Karen Andrews, council Non-executive Director and former federal minister, took that conversation to the world stage, representing Australia at the largest gathering of the recycled materials industry – ReMA 2025.
ReMA 2025, held in the United States, brought together recycled materials industry professionals from around the world, offering an opportunity to speak with leaders in resource recovery and to bring those learnings back to Australia.
“As the amount of waste generated in Australia continues to rise, we need a serious focus on how we can create a stronger domestic market for the
resources we currently recover and for what we could recover,” Ralph said.
“Critically, we need sustained markets for the materials we are recovering. Key insights from global markets such as India and China will help shape how we can prioritise the use of alternative resources to achieve emissions reduction targets and contribute to building a stronger manufacturing sector.”
ARRC met directly with senior industry leaders from Europe, India, the United States (US), China and Canada to discuss key legislative trends and issues.
The priority was to have productive discussions on how the Australian resources recovery industry can play a larger role in driving economic growth and sustainability domestically and globally, and importantly, understand what the new US tariff regime means for global resources trading.
On April 2, 2025, newly reelected US President Donald Trump announced new tariffs on imports from Australia and trade partners globally. The Australian Government continues to analyse the impacts of the trade measures, which are likely to
vary by sector. Ralph said the US tariffs are “creating significant disruption in global trading norms”.
“There are challenges around how countries can trade resources and materials. They require careful examination of global economic dynamics, rather than a simple, straightforward impact.
“There’s a disconnect between Australian and global trade realities. Ideally domestic production is foremost, but the reality is everyone needs to trade globally because not everyone has a use for everything on their home shores.”
Also on the agenda were policy and regulatory insights, navigating environmental guidelines, how other nations are addressing sovereign capability and stimulating local manufacturing.
Ralph said local manufacturing isn’t just about producing goods domestically. It’s about creating an economic ecosystem that transforms resources into valuable economic outputs.
“The goal is to move beyond seeing recycling as a waste management issue and instead view it as a strategic economic opportunity for creating value and jobs. How do we make manufacturing work in Australia by using our resources?
“In the past financial year, the industry directly employed 45,479 Australians, contributing more than $7.3 billion in industry value added to the economy.
“Imagine what it could do if policymakers shifted their thinking by embracing the fact that all renewable and recyclable resources we are generating in our waste are genuine alternatives for our domestic supply chains.”
Ralph said the aim is not to simply copy another country, but to learn from their experiences and adapt strategies to Australia’s specific context.
Rick Ralph, Karen Andrews and Robin Wiener, ReMA President, at a government relations committee meeting. Image: Rick Ralph
He said the timing for a different lens is right, with the average Australian losing confidence in the status quo.
“The waste policy hasn’t achieved what it set out to achieve. We’ve got an increase in waste, and we’ve flat-lined on recycling,” Ralph said. “The old talk of recycling, and having to reduce waste, I don’t believe that cuts it. We can continue to reduce waste, but we can get better outputs if we change the narrative fundamentally.
“We are not focusing on the bigger opportunity of resources, the bigger opportunity of economic outcomes. And that’s what we are intent on, changing the dynamics.
“If we keep doing the same things and expect a different result, it’s a matter of lunacy. You can’t do it. So, we’re leading by demonstration.”
Rick Ralph, Chief Executive Officer of the Australian Resources Recovery Council, and Karen Andrews, council Non-executive Director, at ReMA 2025. Image: Rick Ralph
Turning crisis into opportunity
The NSW Environment Protection Authority is calling for collaboration and innovation to tackle the state’s waste challenges.
This is a year of critical importance to drive forward systemic change to create a circular economy, according to Tony Chappel, Chief Executive Officer of the NSW Environment Protection Authority.
Speaking during the opening session of Waste 2025, the annual waste conference at Coffs Harbour, Chappel highlighted the importance of a shift in thinking and the NSW Environment Protection Authority’s commitment to driving it.
Chappel acknowledged the issue of landfills nearing capacity, particularly in Greater Sydney, with projections estimating they will reach capacity by 2030. He stressed the need for a “systemic shift and transformation” to address this challenge and move towards circularity.
He said a core principle in the EPA’s approach is “deep listening,” a concept drawn from Aboriginal culture. This involves respectful and thorough understanding of the perspectives
of various stakeholders, including industry and the community, to foster deeper collaboration and achieve effective outcomes.
Chappel believes that only through this deeper partnership can the necessary transformation for a circular economy be realised.
The EPA has been working with various stakeholders over the past 18 months to advance this agenda, with the 2024 waste summit serving as a key platform for these discussions.
Chappel called on everyone to “step up to this challenge,” emphasising the current year as a crucial opportunity.
Key initiatives by the NSW EPA include:
• Product Stewardship: Addressing the “holy grail” of extended producer responsibility, the EPA is pushing for product stewardship, particularly for items such as batteries, to ensure responsible production, reuse, and end-of-life management. Chappel highlighted the EPA’s unique position to progress this due to its combined regulatory and policy advisory roles, resulting in model legislation that other states can easily adopt.
• Organics recycling: Recognising that a significant portion of household waste is organic material, the New South Wales Government has enacted a food organics and garden organics (FOGO) mandate.
FOGO services to households and businesses, with the EPA supporting implementation through education campaigns and collaboration with local government.
Chappel highlighted the importance of behaviour change and public education, including the use of Artificial Intelligence and cameras in collection trucks to monitor contamination and target education efforts.
• Plastics reform: The NSW EPA is working to address the escalating plastic crisis. While acknowledging federal efforts on packaging, the authority is also pursuing statelevel actions, including phasing out problematic plastic items and developing initiatives around design standards, such as green lists and red lists for chemicals in plastics.
Chappel emphasised the importance
environmental and health impacts of plastics.
Chappel went on to discuss the development of an infrastructure plan for waste and the circular economy, the waste levy as an economic tool, and the review of resource recovery policies.
He said the EPA is also focused on addressing contaminants, including per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and asbestos, and ensuring that the transition to a circular economy is inclusive, benefiting even remote and Indigenous communities.
While conveying a sense of urgency Chappel was also optimistic, stating that this is a “year of incredible opportunity”.
“There’s a new paradigm in how we work together and I’m proud of the way we’ve collaborated with the community, councils and various stakeholders,” he said.
“This is the year when we can
Tony Chappel, Chief Executive Officer of the NSW Environment Protection Authority, talks about the state’s progression to a circular economy. Image: Impact Environmental
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Aussie, Aussie, Aussie
What’s behind an Australian company built on solid foundations? People, service, and values.
Aussie Industries, encompassing Aussie Skips and Aussie Recycling, has established itself as a significant and expanding brand within the waste management sector, a journey deeply rooted in supporting local businesses and valuing its people.
With a history stretching back 38 years, the company’s growth trajectory speaks volumes about its commitment to service and community.
Mitchell Palmer, Chief Operating Officer, vividly describes the company’s evolution.
“The current owners took over a really small, single facility with no EPL, no infrastructure, and just a handful of trucks,” Mitchell says.
“In the past eight years, it’s grown to become one of the largest privately-owned waste management
companies with two facilities and a focus on opening another inner-city facility shortly.
“Every year it’s growing and improving. Just this year alone, we’ve increased our truck fleet by 30 per cent.”
In May this year Aussie Industries completed its newest facility upgrade at Strathfield, New South Wales – which is where it all began.
Aussie Industries began as Aussie Skips in 1987 and has grown to encompass recycling, commercial waste management and skip bin services.
Over the years both Aussie Skips and Aussie Recycling have expanded operations, increasing fleet size, service coverage, and volume capacity.
The company has built a reputation for fast, flexible service
and reliable solutions, providing support for everyone from builders on tight schedules to families doing weekend cleanups.
Along the way, investment in advanced facilities and growing partnerships with councils, developers, and community groups has helped contribute to reduced landfill waste and a more circular economy.
Mitchell says a continuous improvement in processes and systems to meet the evolving demands of residential, commercial, and industrial clients, while maintaining core values, underscores the company’s approach.
It’s those same core values that have enabled Aussie Industries to remain agile and adaptable, according to Nansi Philips, Operations Manager.
Aussie Skips supplies skip bins for commercial construction waste and domestic markets.
Images: Aussie Industries
“We like to challenge the norm,” Nansi says. “That’s why we are where we are today, because we have good people, driven people, who just make it happen no matter what.
“Maintaining a ‘nothing’s too hard’ attitude and not being afraid to take on the big guys has enabled us to provide end-to-end services that larger competitors can’t.”
Committed to quality and efficiency in construction and demolition waste, as well as all facets of soil, site spoil and excavation debris recycling, Aussie Recycling has achieved and maintained Green Star, as well as International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) best-practice accreditation for safety, environmental protection and quality.
Nansi says agility and an ability to pivot quickly is a competitive advantage, positioning Aussie Industries as a nimble, customer-focused service provider.
The company can respond to industry challenges much faster than larger competitors, often making strategic moves in days or weeks, from tackling waste streams to ordering trucks.
“Being able to make moves quickly –where we respond within days, weeks, or a month – has definitely given us the ability to position ourselves with the multi nationals and be competitive,” she says. “Our Strathfield South recycling facility has now opened and is fully licensed to accept all waste streams from construction and demolition waste to general solid waste.”
The Strathfield South site is a purpose-built recycling facility and is one of the fundamental pillars of Aussie Industries’ commitment to sustainability and supplying the circular economy.
The company’s Greenacre facility is also on the cusp of a significant transformation that, Nansi says, will position it as a game-changer in the waste and resource recovery sector.
“We are currently in the process of lodging an amendment and upgrade proposal, which, if approved, will enable us to significantly enhance our recycling capabilities,” she says.
“This development represents a key step forward in our commitment to advancing the circular economy.
“We are proud to be working in partnership with industry leaders such as SKALA to help bring this vision to life.”
While commercial construction waste is one of Aussie Skips core sectors, the company also supplies skip bins to the domestic markets.
More than 8000 skip bins are available for hire in varying sizes throughout the Greater Sydney area with a fleet of 80 trucks continually servicing a growing client base.
“We have quite a large market share of these,” Mitchell says. “It’s a sector where we’re very trusted, and it’s undergone year-on-year growth.”
Nansi says it’s the varied range of waste solutions provided that has made Aussie Industries an industry leader. And while the company prides
environmental results are equally as important.
The latest technology and best practice collection and sorting methods minimise waste to landfill, helping to protect the environment for future generations.
As advocates for sustainability, Aussie Industries is also actively involved in the local community – from feeding the homeless to participating in charity fundraisers such as Convoy for Kids.
In a bid to inspire the next generation and educate young children about the importance of understanding better waste management practices, the company is developing a program dedicated to educating students from pre-kindergarten through to year six.
It has also developed a strategic partnership with Buildgroup, a majority Aboriginal-owned, and managed waste management business that aims to improve the economic and social inclusion outcomes for Aboriginal people and communities.
Nansi says Aussie Industries prides
The company has partnered with Buildgroup to improve the economic and social inclusion outcomes for Aboriginal people and communities.
management company, it’s a familyowned, people-first business built on the strength of its team.
She says one of the greatest achievements over the years has been the ability to grow and promote talent from within. This has been a core part of the company’s culture since day one, and it’s a principle it
stands by as it continues to expand and meet the demands of a fastpaced industry.
“Many of our current leaders began their careers with us behind the wheel – literally. Drivers who once navigated Sydney’s streets now lead key departments as business development managers, sales managers, allocations managers, and fleet managers,” Nansi says.
“Their progression is not only a testament to their hard work and commitment, but also to Aussie Industries’ belief in nurturing and investing in our people.
“We understand that our continued success doesn’t come from one person or one department, it comes from the collective efforts of those who know our business from the ground up. By promoting from within, we ensure that the values, knowledge,
and experience that define Aussie Industries stay at the heart of everything we do.”
As the company looks to the future it remains committed to this approach.
“It’s our people, the ones who take on the daily challenges, who go above and beyond, and who continue to grow with us, who are the foundation of our strength,” Nansi says. “Thanks to them, Aussie Industries continues to go from strength to strength.”
At Aussie Industries, being a familyowned and operated business is more than just a title – it’s the foundation of the company. Supporting the community isn’t just a priority; it’s a core value.
“From the very beginning, we’ve believed in growing alongside our people, our partners, and the local businesses that have helped shape our journey,” Nansi says. “Staunchly
The truck fleet has increased by 30 per cent just this year.
Jose Mendes, Allocations Manager.
Australian in every sense, Aussie Industries is proud to commit to local sourcing and manufacturing. We deliberately steer clear of offshore purchasing and franchise suppliers, choosing instead to back Australianmade products and homegrown partnerships. Whether it’s the steel used to manufacture our skip bins or the dealerships that supply our fleet, we actively seek out local businesses and stand by them.”
Mitchell adds; “We want to give smaller companies a fair go because that’s how we started.
“We’ve built incredible relationships with these businesses who have supported us through the good times and the tough ones. Watching them grow alongside us has been something truly special.
“This local-first philosophy does more than strengthen the economy it creates lasting partnerships rooted in trust, reliability, and mutual respect. It’s a reflection of our motto: ‘Owned and loved by an Aussie family’, and that spirit runs through every part of our business.
“At Aussie Industries, we’re more than colleagues – we’re a family. A proud,
passionate team that works together every day to deliver outstanding customer service that’s consistent, dependable, and truly local. As we continue to grow, we remain committed to the values that have shaped us and the people who continue to drive us forward.”
Growth continues to be a driving force. Mitchell says Aussie Industries has “much more in the pipeline” to ensure it evolves with customer demand, providing solutions for a wider range of waste streams.
“Customers are asking for more bespoke solutions for materials that traditionally would go to landfill. We want to be able to provide an offtake for those materials to improve recycling percentages,” he says. “Ultimately, we want to continue to grow, new facilities, more trucks, more bins and happier customers. We’re here for the future.
“We’re a customer-first business – the customer truly is our North Star.”
For more information, visit: www.aussieindustries.com.au
Aussie Industries’ Strathfield South facility has undergone a significant upgrade.
Aussie Skips has grown to encompass recycling, commercial waste management and skip bin services.
Something in the air
A new system is optimising the composting process and supporting Australia’s transition towards a more circular and sustainable future for organic waste management.
Australian councils are increasingly focused on diverting organic waste from landfill, driven by regulatory changes mandating the separation of food organics and garden organics (FOGO) into green bins.
This shift has created a need for efficient and scalable composting solutions. Enter the Ennovo Carbon Air System – an automated forced aeration system designed to streamline the composting process, enhance data collection, and potentially generate carbon credits.
An environmental management company, Ennovo brings a technologyfirst approach to complex challenges. Managing Director Ben Dearman says the Carbon Air System stands out due to its ease of use and data management capabilities.
While forced aeration in composting is not a new concept, Ennovo has packaged together telemetry systems, a user-friendly app interface, and specifically developed probes and operational parameters to create a simple yet powerful tool.
Ben says this is particularly beneficial for councils and waste management companies who may not have deep expertise in composting processes.
“It provides really good process control and all the data to support it,” Ben says. “If your compost products need to conform to AS 4454, then ensuring that it is being manufactured to the highest standards is really important.”
The Carbon Air System works by actively managing oxygen levels
within the compost piles, ensuring a consistent aerobic environment.
“The control of oxygen is key to composting, making sure that it’s always aerobic,” Ben says.
“Quite often, compost piles will become anaerobic and start producing methane, which is not what you want. And so that’s the key bit, making sure that those oxygen levels are maintained.”
He says one of the key advantages of the Carbon Air System is its cost-effectiveness. Because it’s a forced aeration system, it reduces the need for manual intervention and heavy machinery for turning compost piles.
“It means that you don’t have to spend a lot of money on plant and equipment to turn the compost
The automated forced aeration system is modular and scalable. Images: Ennovo
piles. Therefore, you’re not using diesel to operate either excavators, windrow turners, or other machinery.”
The system is also telemetry-enabled, providing real-time data accessible from anywhere worldwide. This allows for remote monitoring and management, reducing the need for constant
Furthermore, the system gathers necessary data for potential carbon credit generation under the Clean Energy Regulator rules, adding another layer of value for operators.
The Carbon Air System is an Ennovo technology, building upon its expertise in telemetry and process control for various environmental applications.
Ben says that while the core concept of forced aeration is not new, Ennovo has packaged it with its user-friendly
waste management companies. However, Ben says there is an application for councils.
“Particularly given the increasing volumes of FOGO they need to manage. The scalability of the system makes it well-suited to handle the anticipated surge in organic waste.
Carbon Air System has been a progression from earlier forced aeration technologies, focusing on improvements for Australian conditions, cost-effectiveness, and robustness to withstand the harsh environments of composting facilities. The system, including pipes, blowers, and probes,
Looking ahead, he says Ennovo aims to be a leading recycled organics service provider in Australia, offering holistic process control, and product quality for
recycled organics service providers in Australia. We want to be really strong in that market, right across Australia,
“We come from real-world experience. I used to operate a compost facility, and the team has been working on compost
organic processes, for a very long time.
“We’re not just a desktop consultant; www.ennovo.com.au
Ennovo team members have extensive work in the field and draw on their experiences to help clients.
The Carbon Air System works by actively managing oxygen levels within the compost piles.
Coast-to-coast
Having led the way with organic waste management internationally for many years, REMONDIS Australia is shifting up several gears locally – including a significant
“The acquisition gives us control of the full organics value chain including collection logistics, processing, compost production and sale.
“Given that REMONDIS operates close to 100 organics waste management facilities internationally, we see enormous opportunity to add our global expertise so processing capacity can be supercharged. Here in Western Australia, we’re
The REMONDIS GO Organics leadership group Vince Stacey, Donovan Farrell, Chris Gusenzow and Jamin Booth.
“Most importantly we’ll be ready for any rollouts of municipal FOGO (food and garden organics) and commercial FO (food organics) recycling in the wider Perth region.”
Donovan Farrell says it will be business as usual for existing customers as operations expand.
“Being a family-run business for so many years has enabled us to maintain customer rapport and been the backbone of our success,” Donovan says.
“Our continued shareholding means that family touch will continue as we tap into the know-how of one of the world’s most prominent and innovative waste management operators.
“Bigger investment in equipment and systems is front and centre as we commence the next legs of our journey with REMONDIS, meaning better service and cost efficiency for customers old and new. It’s also highly likely we’ll be investing in more staff as we grow.”
Donovan says the hands down winner though is the environment.
“We’re talking about a lot of organic waste being diverted from landfill and converted to valuable resources.”
COUNTRYWIDE COVERAGE
REMONDIS is investing in new and established organics facilities on the east coast, too.
In South East Queensland REMONDIS is developing a bespoke enclosed tunnel composting facility capable of handling green waste and FOGO from multiple local government areas.
In New South Wales REMONDIS has ticked every box, upgrading its Organics Resource Recovery Facility at Awaba near Lake Macquarie, which produces compost and mulch for gardening and farming.
A two-year works program was required to keep up with demand and has included partial enclosure of the receival hall, installation of
a front-end decontamination line, upgrades to maturation and storage pads and integration of advanced sorting equipment – assuring next-level environmental compliance, efficiency and compost products.
Established more than 20 years ago, REMONDIS’ Organics Resource Recovery Facility at Port Macquarie was Australia’s first enclosed in-vessel composting facility.
The facility now receives some 40,000 tonnes of organics annually; about half is broken down through the composting process while the other half is sold as compost.
Upgrades are also underway at REMONDIS’ Seven Hills waste transfer station in the heart of suburban Sydney, paving the way for the site to receive FOGO – a critical piece of waste management infrastructure in support of New South Wales’s commercial organics mandate, which comes into effect from 1 July.
LEGISLATIVE SUPPORT
Björn says there remain concerning realities when it comes to organic waste in Australia.
“Everyone from business and government through to residential households wants less landfill and more recycling, and advanced organics management is critical to that,” Björn says.
“Australia is moving in the right direction, but not as effectively as many other countries. Far too much organic waste is still going to landfill
because the population lacks access to FOGO services.
“In 2022–23 Australia generated 14.6 million tonnes of organic waste, yet only 62 per cent was recovered, primarily because large portions of the population still lack access to FOGO services, resulting in organic waste being landfilled.”
On a positive note, he says New South Wales, Victoria and Queensland are moving towards mandated commercial collections – tremendous steps forward.
“Companies such as REMONDIS can only build processing facilities if we’re certain of input, which is usually underpinned through local government contracts.
“From there it’s up to households and businesses to ensure organic waste is put in the right collection bins or delivered to our sites clean and uncontaminated,” Björn says.
He cited organics-to-fuel conversion as a missing link in Australia’s waste management landscape.
“REMONDIS operates 22 biogas conversion facilities across Europe that generate enormous amounts of biogas and biomethane from organic waste, which can be used for things such as electricity production and truck fuel.
“We’d like to advance such facilities in Australia, but local regulatory frameworks simply aren’t ready to accommodate such technology.”
For more information, visit: www.remondis-australia.com.au
GO Organics’ processing facility at Boonanarring. Images: REMONDIS
Standing on solid ground
Repurpose It and Titan Pre-Mix Concrete have teamed up to create a greener solution for concrete.
Intent on creating a point of difference in the resource recovery market, Repurpose It has partnered with independent concreters Titan Pre-Mix Concrete.
In 2021, Titan was invited to set up a plant on the Repurpose It site in Melbourne’s northern suburb of Epping.
The companies have since worked together to process recycled building materials into a high-quality concrete.
Repurpose It exists to eliminate waste and pollution through closed loop resource recovery.
John McCluskey, Chief Commercial
increasing importance of sustainability in the industry, Repurpose It knew this was a great chance for collaboration.
“For us, driving circular solutions is paramount to ensure we create longterm benefits in our community,” says John.
“In order to do this, Repurpose It needed to find the right partner to help us deliver our goals.”
The right partner in this instance is Titan. For more than 40 years, the Trovatello family has supplied concrete across Victoria.
With a focus on delivering
customer relationships, the thirdgeneration family business has earned industry trust.
John says Titan is not only a partner on site but a partner in delivering the right environmental outcomes.
“This is a partnership which we believe will bring long-term value, not only to us, but to our collective customers in a market that is forever evolving,” he says.
“Titan is the largest independent concrete supplier in Victoria and is punching well above its weight in a competitive market.
“It is constantly pushing boundaries to maintain that competitiveness, all while offering a quality service with a greener product.”
Repurpose It works to eliminate waste and pollution through closed-loop resource recovery. It creates repurposed materials from a range of waste streams including food organics, garden organics, hard green waste, mixed rubble, concrete and brick.
It follows a regimented quality assurance process to ensure the products supplied to Titan meet the highest standard.
Those supplied by Titan undergo the same rigours.
Daily operations begin with Repurpose It processing the materials through a wash plant to be sorted into three different fractions: sand, aggregate and clay.
Repurpose It and Titan Pre-Mix Concrete began their partnership in 2021. Images: Repurpose It
Titan then takes a significant volume of the outputs, mostly the sand, which is then recycled into the finished concrete.
Adam Trovatello, Managing Director of Titan Pre-Mix Concrete, says the partnership has allowed Titan to create a sustainable concrete which exceeds industry requirements.
“At Titan, we are always pushing the limits and always looking at innovative ways to take on more recycled materials and use them in our mixes,” he says.
“We are proud to have a stellar reputation for quality while using recycled materials. Titan consistently proves we’re able to deliver high quality concrete to our customers, no matter the makeup.”
John says being greener doesn’t mean the concrete is of any lesser quality, and in fact exceeds all expectations.
“The testing by Titan shows that the green mix can exceed ‘traditional mixes’ in more ways than one,” he says.
“Not only is it better for the environment, but by incorporating high-quality recycled aggregates, sand, and high levels of supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) like slag and fly ash, we create a finished product with better long-term durability, strength, better pumpability and overall finish.”
Adam says the partnership has opened the door for many new customers and the chance to work on large infrastructure projects, including the North East Link in Victoria – part of the Victorian Government’s Big Build project which will oversee the delivery of three major road projects in the state.
“The partnership has put us in a really good spot to be able to service the sector with our green, environmentally friendly concrete,” Adam says.
“If we weren’t so close in terms of proximity, we would probably struggle to take on some of the jobs.”
allowed Titan the chance to bring a unique offering to the market.
“Having an integrated supply chain and partner that is willing to try new things, from a research and development (R&D) perspective, is critical,” he says.
As an independent company, Titan doesn’t have the same resources as some bigger companies, but Adam says testing and innovation is always a high priority.
“Although we have a small team compared to the majors, we’re constantly investing in R&D, conducting trials on site and pushing the boundaries to provide greener concrete solutions for our customers,” he says.
“As a company we are on the smaller side but R&D is, and will remain, at the forefront of our business, along with sustainability.”
John says introducing a new product in the sustainability and circular economy space can be challenging, but the united effort has made it a breeze.
“By continuously proving that our product exceeds expectations and building momentum in this space, we have established a great place in the market,” he says.
“We’ve seen first-hand, based on Titan’s feedback, that customer response has been overwhelmingly positive.”
To uphold transparency and education, Repurpose It has made it a mission to educate the communities it’s servicing about the benefits of greener concrete.
“We have done a lot of work on educating them about what concrete looks like from a green perspective and how that is achieved from start to finish,” says John.
“Similar to that, Titan is forwardthinking in the market and also educates its customers to think about what they’re buying and what they’re recycling.”
For more information, visit: www.repurposeit.com.au
The partnership has allowed Titan to attain a number of large jobs, including a part of the North East Link, a major construction project in Victoria.
Kings of the waste yard
Tana Oy’s acquisition of GCM Enviro signals a boost for Australian recycling. Henri Kinnunen, Tana Vice President Product Management and Business Development, explains.
meetings to ensure a smooth transition. With the final documents signed, he’s ready to launch this next phase.
He says the addition of GCM Enviro into the fold signifies an evolution for the Finnish company, allowing it to move beyond its traditional strengths and offer a more comprehensive range of solutions.
The increased local presence in Australia reinforces Tana’s mission: to improve customers’ businesses – from waste to value – and is the first part of a strategic focus on circular economy and sustainable solutions.
“It’s very exciting for us,” Henri says. “We see Australia as a growing market. By combining our operations, we can
New beginnings. The acquisition was officially signed off at GCM Enviro’s Melbourne office in May. Images: Tana Oy
be closer to our customers, growing our presence and fleet. We aim to better understand customer needs, provide faster response times, and build stronger customer loyalty.
“We want to be the kings of the waste yard.”
Tana and GCM Enviro have worked together successfully for more than two decades. Under the acquisition, which was completed in May 2025, GCM Enviro will operate under the new name Tana Australia Pty Ltd.
Henri says the current team at GCM will continue to operate as before, ensuring business continuity and maintaining strong relationships with existing customers and partners.
The integration will bring additional resources and improved service capabilities under the TANA brand.
Foremost among these is access to Tana’s established global network, which encompasses not only sales and distribution channels but also a wealth of technical expertise, research and development capabilities, and established supply chains.
Henri sees the biggest potential for growth in the business-to-business environment and private waste yard operators.
He’s also committed to continuing GCM Enviro’s successful ‘second life’ business – refurbishing machines for resale in the Australian and New Zealand market.
“GCM Enviro is doing a very good job in the second life business,” he says. “That’s a growing business with a lot of potential.”
Tana Oy’s history is rooted in providing reliable machinery to the waste management industry worldwide. Initially focused on landfill compaction, the company has built a legacy of durable and efficient equipment including shredders and screeners. Although expanding the product portfolio,
landfill compactors will continue to be a core offering.
“Landfill compactors are not going anywhere,” Henri says. “We have a fleet of more than 100 landfill compactors in Australia.”
GCM Enviro, has been a leading provider of waste processing and recycling equipment in Australia for more than 25 years, selling more than 3200 machines across the country.
It has been a representative of Tana “since it only had one product”, building a solid reputation for its expertise, customer service, and commitment to environmental sustainability.
Nathan Connor, General Manager of GCM Enviro, says the acquisition by Tana is “an exciting new chapter”.
“From the beginning, the mission has been to provide customers with cutting edge technology in solid waste management, combined with state-of-the-art control and monitoring,” he says.
“The founders could not have imagined where the company is today.
“We are proud to become Tana Australia. With deeper collaboration and access to more global resources, we can deliver even more value to our customers.”
Henri says the expansion comes at a crucial time for Australia, as the nation intensifies its efforts to improve recycling rates, reduce landfill waste, and transition towards a more circular economy.
“Given the legislative environment in Australia at the moment, where everyone’s working towards resource recovery, it’s an area where we see tremendous opportunities for growth,” he says. “GCM has done an amazing job as a small company. We aim to maintain the momentum and become a market leader.”
For more information, visit: www.gcmenviro.com
Henri Kinnunen, Tana Oy Vice President, sees Australia as a growing market.
Innovative Environmental Experts
Ennovo provides comprehensive solutions for the management of recycled organics based on extensive experience with designing, constructing and operating recycled organics facilities.
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Process and product development
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Ennovo’s Carbon Air system automates forced aeration for efficient composting in windrow and in-vessel applications. With telemetryenabled automation, it reduces costs, optimises operations, and ensures high-quality output, making it ideal for FOGO composting. Ennovo provides end-to-end solutions from design to market development.
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From waste to wealth
Why vertical integration is the missing link in Australia’s circular economy.
Australia’s waste industry stands on the brink of a seismic shift. Landfill capacity in metropolitan Melbourne could be exhausted by 2026, according to a report from the Victorian Auditor-General’s office.
In November 2024, New South Wales Environment Minister Penny Sharpe and NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) Chief Executive Officer Tony Chappel stated that without some quick decisions and choices, Greater Sydney’s landfill capacity would be exhausted within the next decade.
Canberra has set an 80 per cent diversion target by 2030 and mandated sharp cuts to organics and plastics headed to landfill.
At the same time, councils nationwide face escalating gate fees and public pressure to do better.
Jeff Lang, Chief Executive Officer of Vortair, says hitting those numbers with incremental tweaks is impossible; what’s needed is fresh thinking that treats every tonne of waste as feedstock, not as rubbish going to landfill.
“That philosophy is the heart of the circular economy,” Jeff says.
“A true circular system keeps materials in play for as long as possible, cascading them from one high-value use to the next with minimal loss.
“Achieving it demands vertical integration: Collection, preprocessing, manufacturing and end market
development must be stitched together so that what leaves one facility seamlessly feeds the next. Only then can Australia break the linear ‘collect, cart, bury’ model that still defines too many local contracts.”
Jeff says Vortair, an Australianmade patented technology, is rapidly enabling genuine integration.
Instead of shredders or hightemperature combustion, Vortair harnesses controlled kinetic fission vortex energy to break the material at ambient conditions.
Organics, textiles, composites and even contaminated municipal solid waste (MSW) are reduced by up to 90 per cent in volume and discharged as either a micronised powder or a
From glass waste to glass powder that can be used for construction purposes. Images: Vortair
“It would recast ‘waste’ from burden to opportunity, a narrative shift that attracts private capital and sparks the innovation loop we need,”
Jeff Lang, Chief Executive Officer, Vortair
heterogeneous slurry ready for separation and industrial applications.
Jeff says the technology is already rewriting value chains.
Glass waste that once clogged sorting plants are milled into sub-75micron pozzolan that can replace the sand in Portland cement and fetch about $80 a tonne. Beef processors can transform low-value beef waste into collagen hydrolysate and beef protein powder which is vastly more valuable.
“Councils can trial the system and feed mixed food waste straight into Vortair and receive an odour-reduced bio powder ideal for biochar or anaerobic digestion, eliminating costly dewatering and transport to external composters,” he says.
“The result – lower disposal bills and new revenue streams born from material that previously bled cash.”
The climate dividend is equally compelling. Landfills generate roughly a third of Australia’s fugitive methane; slashing organic inputs is the fastest way to choke that pipeline. Every tonne of food waste diverted prevents up to 1.9 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent gases.
Vortair compounds the benefit by shrinking truck movements, lowering the parasitic load on composting aerators, and creating a stable powder that can be stored, blended or pelletised without spoilage.
“Economically, integration anchored by advanced milling flips the cost
curve,” Jeff says. “Victoria’s landfill levy already sits at $235 a tonne and will escalate; in contrast, recycled glass powder, fibre-rich soil amendments and low-carbon fillers generate positive cash flow.
“Independent modelling shows that a waste transfer facility with Vortair systems could save participating councils up to $4 million a year in avoided disposal fees while creating new revenue streams for host communities.”
Regulation is moving the same way, Jeff says. The forthcoming federal mandatory packaging design standards will impose recycled content quotas, while state climate plans now count Scope 3 emissions. Powderised glass, dehydrated organics and micronised polymers from Vortair give manufacturers a domestic, specification-ready feedstock that mitigates compliance risks and keeps value onshore.
Finance is lining up, too. Clean Energy Finance Corporation loans and state Recycling Modernisation Funds are already backing advanced processing. Jeff says projects that combine methane abatement, material substitution and regional jobs tick every box for investors.
Waste solar panels are difficult to recycle. Vortair has been proven to reduce them to powder.
The Vortair has successfully milled end-of-life wind turbine blades.
So how do we get there? First, he says policy makers must tilt the playing field toward high-value recovery, not just diversion. Weight-based targets should be joined by incentives for embodied carbon reduction and design for disassembly.
Infrastructure planners should re-imagine transfer stations as “urban mines” where Vortair modules sit beside optical sorters, plastics densifiers and additive manufacturing bays.
Vortair’s modular footprint (less than a shipping container) means equipment can be redeployed as waste streams evolve. Finally, end markets must be nurtured through procurement policies that favour low-carbon concrete, bio-based fertilisers and recycled content plastics.
“The prize is enormous,” Jeff says. “Fully integrating Vortair-enabled
JCB WHEEL LOADERS
preprocessing into Australia’s waste ecosystem could abate millions of tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent annually, extend landfill life by a decade and seed new industries in regional centres hungry for skilled jobs.
“More importantly, it would recast ‘waste’ from burden to opportunity, a narrative shift that attracts private capital and sparks the innovation loop we need to stay competitive.”
Jeff says vertical integration, powered by technologies such as Vortair, offers a proven, scalable path to the circular economy. The alternative is paying everhigher fees to bury value Australia can ill afford to lose.
“The future of waste is not disposal; it is manufacturing. By embracing advanced milling as the critical pretreatment step, Australia can turn the page on landfill dependency and write
a new chapter where one industry’s tailings become another’s treasure,” Jeff says. “It is time to grind, not bury, our way to a cleaner, more prosperous circular economy.”
For more information, visit: www.vortair.com.au
PROVEN RELIABLE AND PRODUCTIVE
The Vortair 500 is Australian-made patented technology.
Change has
B-cycle has long advocated for facilitating safe and accessible battery recycling for consumers across metropolitan, regional, and remote areas, and is pleased to say progress has finally been made.
“Free riders are companies that have avoided voluntary participation, limiting the scheme’s overall effectiveness,” she says.
“This legislation provides the framework to build a truly national, circular system for battery recovery and delivers a level playing field, ensuring all battery brand owners contribute fairly.”
Libby says B-cycle has worked closely with the New South Wales Government and stakeholders during the development of the legislation, sharing data, risk insights, and practical experience from the operation side of things.
The next step for the government is to finalise the battery regulation, which will set out the detailed requirements for how brands and the scheme must operate.
“Our long-term goal has always been to help shape a stewardship framework that can be effectively implemented and scaled nationally,” Libby says.
“B-cycle will continue to work closely with the New South Wales Government on this journey.”
As the state navigates a new chapter, Libby says B-cycle will play a crucial role in supporting industry compliance, expanding collection networks, enhancing customer education and continually advocating for national consistency.
“Once battery brand owners join the B-cycle scheme, they will gain access to the knowledge and systems they need to comply with the new stewardship obligations,” says Libby.
“We will facilitate this and strengthen our collection infrastructure to meet increased demand for facilities.”
She says the scheme will also align public messaging with government fire risk reduction campaigns to promote safe battery disposal and collaborate with other state, territory and national governments to ensure a harmonised approach to battery stewardship across Australia.
IMMINENT CHANGE
Following the Bill’s passing, Libby says B-cycle has seen an increased engagement from both industry and government.
“Brand owners are seeking guidance to understand their future obligations, and discussions are underway to strengthen collection infrastructure and consumer education
in anticipation of broader regulation,” she says. “The New South Wales Act has been drafted specifically so it can be adopted by other jurisdictions, and we see this as a pivotal opportunity for national alignment.”
She says a harmonised approach will reduce administrative complexity for industry, improve safety outcomes, and enhance the effectiveness of battery recovery across the country.
“We have been engaging with other state and territory governments to encourage consistent adoption,” she says.
“Conversations with state and federal governments have focused on alignment, compliance support, and the role of schemes like B-cycle in delivering a smooth transition. We simply can’t afford to avoid nationally harmonised regulation.”
Libby says a shared recognition that battery fire risks, environmental pressures, and growing battery volumes require coordinated national action was highlighted at the December Environment Ministers Meeting (EMM), which had a strong focus on battery safety.
“Following the meeting, the New South Wales Government has taken decisive leadership, and other jurisdictions are actively engaged in these discussions,” she says.
B-CYCLE 2.0
In December 2024, B-cycle unveiled the final design for its updated framework B-cycle 2.0 – a strategic expansion of the scheme, designed to meet growing demand.
B-cycle 2.0 was developed over 12 months of extensive consultation and cross-sector collaboration.
Libby says it introduces bold strategic measures to improve safety and ensure a sustainable funding model while expanding access to accommodate all portable batteries, enhance data and reporting systems, and a deeper
alignment with government priorities around safety, access, and circularity.
“The battery revolution is transforming our lives but also presents unprecedented challenges,” she says.
“This new scheme design ensures we can address today’s safety and environmental risks while building a sustainable future for how batteries are managed across their entire life cycle.”
The most notable change from the updated scheme is the potential to include an extended scope of materials. With the introduction of regulation, the new scheme design enables B-cycle to expand its scope to include other products such as vapes, small electronics, and larger portable batteries up to 60 kilograms.
Proactive measures to mitigate lithium-ion battery fire risks in waste and recycling systems is also in the framework, as well as targeted funding for public awareness campaigns and infrastructure improvements to drive improvements and behavioural change.
Libby says with 716 accredited organisations and recyclers already part of the network, B-cycle 2.0 will empower its participants with the tools, funding, and support needed to achieve sustainable and scalable success.
“Regulation is undeniably essential for the long-term success of battery stewardship and circularity,” she says.
“B-cycle 2.0 has been specifically designed for this regulatory shift, ensuring all players contribute to the safety, sustainability, and accelerated diversion.”
As a not-for-profit organisation, BSC is guided by its constitution, which provides a governance framework with an independent chair, independent directors, and directors – with expertise across the supply chain, including recyclers.
Libby says B-cycle 2.0 has been designed in response to eight months of consultation and to address critical
Libby Chaplin, Chief Executive Officer of Battery Stewardship Council. Image: Battery Stewardship Council
issues highlighted by the Australian Council of Recycling (ACOR) and the Waste Management and Resource Recovery Association of Australia (WMRR).
“This strong governance framework has been vital in the development of the new scheme and ensures BSC is wellpositioned to deliver on B-cycle 2.0’s
TURNING WASTE INTO PROFIT
ambitious goals,” she says. “BSC fully aligns with the waste industry concerns about growing risks and will continue to champion decisive government action to make battery stewardship mandatory.”
BSC is calling on all parties to back the reform to protect public safety, reduce environmental harm, and build a circular economy for batteries.
“B-cycle is ready to support industry and government as we move into this new phase,” says Libby. “We remain committed to making it easy and safe for all Australians to recycle their batteries, no matter where they live.”
For more information, visit: www.bcycle.com.au
Bold BID to solve battery waste
EcoCycle leads Australia’s response to rising battery-in-device waste with a scalable onshore solution.
EBattery-In-Device Shredding (BIDS) plant in Melbourne by September 2025, in what it describes as a significant step forward for Australia’s circular economy.
The ground-breaking facility, based at EcoCycle’s Campbellfield headquarters, is designed to process the increasing volume of embedded battery waste, including mixed lithium batteries, from products such as vapes, toys, power tools, wearables, mobile phones, and novelty items.
Nick Dodd, EcoCycle General Manager, says the BIDS plant marks a major evolution in how Australia handles battery-containing devices at end of life. With a strong emphasis on safe, onshore processing, the new plant aims to reduce environmental risk
bid to provide scalable, future-ready solutions for one of the fastest-growing and most hazardous waste streams, with BIDS plants also planned for Western Australia, Queensland and New Zealand.
In another Australian first, EcoBatt, a subsidiary within the EcoCycle Group, will open a dedicated lithium battery recycling plant in early 2026.
MEETING A GROWING THREAT
Australia generates thousands of tonnes of battery-powered products each year, many of which end up in landfill or kerbside bins, posing significant fire and contamination risks.
Nick says the absence of dedicated infrastructure for recovering batteries embedded in devices has long been a
gap in the national recycling system.
EcoCycle’s investment in BIDS technology is set to bridge that gap.
“This isn’t just about recycling batteries, it’s about rethinking how we manage products at the end of their life,” he says.
“Australians are buying more batterypowered items than ever before, and many of these are small, embedded, and difficult to dismantle. The BIDS plant will allow us to safely and efficiently process these products and reclaim the valuable materials.”
The Battery-In-Device-Shredder is a world-leading solution designed to safely recycle both loose and embedded batteries. Using a wet, flooded shred and separation process with advanced environmental controls, it mechanically separates battery-containing devices into plastic, metal, and black mass fractions, recovering critical minerals vital to the circular economy.
Nick says this world-first, patentpending technology has been designed and developed by specialist engineers, in close collaboration with EcoBatt’s experienced team, to meet global market needs.
With an exclusive Australasian agreement secured, the Michiganbased manufacturing team is now in full production, fulfilling orders for international clients.
The plant is engineered to handle a wide range of devices, with automated
The Battery-In-Device Shredding (BIDS) plant at EcoCycle’s Campbellfield headquarters is scheduled to open in September 2025. Images: EcoCycle
shredding and separation systems capable of processing everything from button cells in greeting cards to rechargeable packs in tools and e-mobility products. It also incorporates comprehensive fire suppression systems, pressure release mechanisms, and safety protocols to mitigate the risks associated with lithium-ion batteries.
PIONEERING ONSHORE PROCESSING
Historically, much of Australia’s complex battery waste has been stockpiled or thrown in wheelie bins, taken away in rubbish trucks to recycling centres and/ or landfills due to a lack of domestic processing options.
This has resulted in a significant increase of fires in waste and recycling centres, an issue that must be urgently addressed, and stopped.
Nick says EcoCycle’s BIDS plant signals a crucial shift towards localised recycling, retaining valuable materials within Australia’s economy.
“We’re proud to be investing in domestic capability,” says Spyro, National Partnerships Manager at EcoCycle.
“The BIDS plant is part of a broader strategy that includes our Lithium Battery Recycling plant, due to come online in 2026. Together, they form the foundation of Australia’s next generation of materials recovery infrastructure.”
The Campbellfield site will also serve as a national centre for training, research and development, and industry collaboration – supporting regulators, councils, manufacturers, and technology providers in the safe handling, discharging, and dismantling of battery-containing products, and mixed batteries.
ALIGNING WITH NATIONAL PRIORITIES
As Australia sharpens its focus on critical minerals, green metals, circular economy outcomes, and
sovereign processing capability, battery recycling is rising on the national agenda. Batteries are increasingly seen as essential to energy security, electrification, and national resilience.
Spyro says EcoBatt is well placed to meet these goals with more than 7500 drop-off locations nationwide, a fleet of dangerous goods (DG)-licensed vehicles and DG-licensed drivers, a network of industry-leading battery collection bins fitted with smart sensors, heat detection, GPS tracking and fill-level monitoring.
“The BIDS plant is the logical next step in strengthening our domestic recycling infrastructure,” he says.
“It expands our operational capacity and introduces a critical pathway for processing embedded batteries that have previously gone unmanaged.”
ENGINEERING A SAFER FUTURE
With increasing concerns about fires in collection bins, transport vehicles, transfer stations, material recovery facilities and landfills, safety is a priority for councils, retailers, and the waste industry at large. Improper battery disposal continues to be a significant hazard.
“We’ve seen first-hand the risks posed by lithium batteries when they’re mishandled,” says Nick. “That’s why we’ve designed this facility with multiple safety layers, not just for our team, but for the wider communities we serve.”
The plant will operate under stringent Environment Protection Authority licensing and include proprietary safety systems developed in-house by EcoCycle’s engineering team. Features include real-time monitoring, temperature sensors, and enclosed processing zones to minimise risk while maximising recovery.
LOOKING AHEAD
As demand for battery-powered products continues to accelerate, so
Key benefits of the BIDS system:
• Processes up to one tonne per hour of challenging e-waste items
• No pre-stripping of devices required
• Reduced risk of battery fires
• Increased processing uptime and operational safety
• Controlled, treated emissions using recycled rainwater
• Filtration system for black mass recovery
• Evaporative water treatment for reusing the wastewater in plant
Recovered outputs include:
• Black mass– containing lithium, cobalt, nickel, graphite, manganese, and zinc.
• Mixed metals – including aluminium, copper, stainless steel, and steel
• Mixed plastics, paper and cardboard
• Printed Circuit Boards
• Glass
too does the urgency for robust endof-life solutions. Nick says EcoCycle’s BIDS plant arrives at a pivotal moment, not just providing the tools to manage this growing waste stream but setting a new benchmark in battery recycling innovation.
“This is about future-proofing our recycling industry,” says Nick. “We’re making sure Australia has the infrastructure it needs to deal with tomorrow’s waste, today.”
For more information, visit: www.ecocycle.com.au
Rise of the Phoenix
Finlay Waste & Recycling introduces a track-mounted trommel screen engineered for versatile and high-throughput processing.
At the forefront of mobile material processing, Finlay Waste & Recycling continues to bring know-how and cutting-edge equipment solutions to the recycling and construction industries.
One of the latest innovations to join its lineup is Terex Ecotec’s brand new Phoenix 2100T Trommel Screen – a highly efficient, tracked variant of the popular Phoenix 2100 trommel.
Engineered to meet the demands of large to medium-sized operations, the Phoenix 2100T combines exceptional throughput, application flexibility, and enhanced serviceability, positioning itself as a powerful asset for owners and operators across various industries.
The Phoenix 2100T is equipped with the latest intelligent screening technology, accurately screening a wide range of materials including
compost, biomass, soil, green waste, construction and demolition (C&D) waste, and aggregates.
With its innovative features, the Phoenix 2100T stands as a reliable solution for businesses looking to maximise productivity with multiple on-site configurations while maintaining high operational standards.
UNRIVALLED MOBILITY
Designed for simplicity and ease of operation, the Phoenix 2100T features rapid set-up capabilities and can be up and running within minutes without the need for any tooling.
The user-friendly control system, with push-button start/stop, simplifies operation while the intelligent control system continuously monitors and adjusts the feeder speed to optimise screening performance.
Brad Scott, Finlay Sales Manager, says this feature helps to maximise throughput, ensuring the machine runs at its full potential with minimal operator effort.
The Phoenix 2100T also boasts a fully proportional, hydrostatic feeder, which works in tandem with the intelligent system, further enhancing the overall screening efficiency. Brad says this combination ensures that owners and operators can achieve optimal results, whether they’re handling compost, waste, or aggregates.
DURABILITY AND PRECISION
The Phoenix 2100T is fitted with a 1.94 metre x 6.45 metre screening drum, available with heavy-duty mesh or punch plate options to suit a variety of material specifications and materials.
Multiple on-site configurations mean the Phoenix 2100T is suitable for a range of industries.
“A perfect balance of power and efficiency, ensuring high performance.”
Brad Scott, Finlay Sales Manager
Brad says it offers a perfect balance of power and efficiency, ensuring high performance while reducing operating costs.
“The engine operates at a lower revs per minute, resulting in reduced noise and emissions – helping businesses adhere to environmental standards while keeping fuel consumption low,” he says.
A standout feature of the Phoenix 2100T is its independent track subframe and adjustable drum screening angle, which can be modified from zero to seven degrees during operation to
materials and screening requirements with ease, always optimising performance. Additionally, side drum access allows for quick and easy maintenance, reducing downtime and keeping the machine operating at peak performance.
MAXIMISING EFFICIENCY
“With its powerful hydrostatic fourwheel drive system, the Phoenix 2100T offers exceptional start-up torque and screening efficiency, ensuring reliable performance even in challenging conditions,” he says.
remotely while in motion, allowing for increased stockpile capacity and onsite operational flexibility.
Both radial fines and oversized conveyors can be hydraulically lowered to ground level for effortless maintenance access, making it easier to perform routine checks and repairs.
“The Phoenix 2100T offers unparalleled operational ease, versatility, and reduced maintenance requirements, making it a smart investment for owners looking to streamline their material processing operations,” Brad says.
“With its combination of cuttingedge technology, efficiency, and ease of use, the Phoenix 2100T sets a new benchmark for trommel screens in the industry.”
The Phoenix 2100T is now available through Finlay Waste & Recycling. Customers have full access to Finlay’s expert sales and aftermarket service.
The Phoenix 2100T trommel screen is equipped with the latest intelligent screening technology. Images: Finlay Waste & Recycling
AGiant slayer
in sustainable off-the-road tyre recycling for Australian mines.
ustralia’s resource sector, a vital contributor to the national economy, also creates one of the biggest environmental challenges – the management of Off-the-Road (OTR) tyres.
Essential for industries spanning mining, agriculture, construction, and aviation, an estimated 130,000 tonnes of OTR tyres reach their end-of-life annually, with the mining sector accounting for about 79 per cent, according to Tyre Stewardship Australia.
The sheer size and composition (rubber reinforced with steel and fabric) of tyres, combined with the oftenremote operational environments, presents obstacles to effective recycling.
Historically, only about 10 per cent of these tyres have been recycled, the remainder buried on-site or stockpiled.
Aside from the environmental risks, including the potential for leachate to Fornnax’s role
contaminate soil and groundwater, and the fire hazard associated with large tyre accumulations, these historical methods are a missed opportunity to recover valuable materials and contribute to a more circular economy.
Advancements in OTR tyre recycling technology are paving the way for a more sustainable future. Fornnax Technology stands as a key provider of these solutions.
With more than a decade of global expertise in the field, Fornnax Technology manufactures a suite of robust and efficient recycling equipment specifically engineered to address the unique demands of OTR tyres. Its customised solutions, encompassing primary and secondary shredders, granulators, and sophisticated separation systems, enable the efficient processing of these massive materials into valuable secondary resources.
Fornnax’s integrated Crumb Rubber Production Line employs a multi-stage process for the recycling of OTR tyres. Initially, Fornnax’s powerful SR-Series primary shredders, characterised by their low speed and high torque, reduce whole OTR tyres into manageable strips. Integrated screening mechanisms ensure a consistent output size, optimising subsequent processing stages.
These tyre strips are then processed by Fornnax’s heavy-duty R-Series secondary shredders – medium-speed machines that further reduce the rubber and aid in the separation of steel from the rubber matrix.
Over-band magnets remove the liberated steel, resulting in steel-free or low-steel rubber material. This then proceeds to Fornnax’s advanced TRSeries granulators.
Through primary and final granulation stages, combined with sophisticated screening and air classification systems, textile fibres and any remaining steel contaminants are removed, yielding high-quality rubber granules with a purity level reaching up to 99.9 per cent.
Fornnax’s technology enables the transformation of end-of-life OTR tyres into a range of valuable secondary materials. The initial shreds, ranging from 50 to 300 millimetres, can serve as tyre-derived fuel (TDF) for energy-intensive industries or as tyre-derived aggregate (TDA) for civil engineering applications.
Smaller, steel-free chips, between 12 and 30 millimetres, find applications in landscaping, playgrounds, and as feedstock for advanced recycling
Fornnax’s OTR Tyre Recycling Plant can be customised for output requirements. Images: Fornnax Technology
processes such as pyrolysis. Highquality rubber granules ranging from 0.8 to 4 millimetres are a key ingredient in various products, including sports surfaces, crumb rubber modified bitumen for roads, resilient flooring, and automotive components.
Fornnax’s separation systems also ensure the recovery of clean steel wires, a valuable resource for the steel manufacturing industry.
Jignesh Kundaria, Fornnax Director and Chief Executive Officer, says that as Australia intensifies its efforts to address the environmental responsibility associated with its OTR tyre waste, Fornnax Technology offers solutions to support the development of a robust and sustainable recycling sector.
“Fornnax manufactures heavy-duty machinery specifically engineered to withstand the rigors of processing large and robust OTR tyres, ensuring reliable and efficient operation,” he says.
Recognising the diverse scale and requirements of recycling operations, Fornnax customises systems to optimise material flow and output quality.
“Fornnax’s integrated systems are designed to maximise the recovery of valuable rubber, steel, and even textile components, promoting resource efficiency and reducing waste,” Jignesh says.
“By producing high-quality recycled materials, particularly crumb rubber, Fornnax supports the creation of local markets for these sustainable alternatives.
“Efficient recycling offers a significantly more environmentally sound alternative to landfilling or on-site burial, contributing to a more circular economy and a cleaner environment for generations to come.”
For more information, visit: www.fornnax.com
Whole OTR tyres are shredded into manageable strips.
Over-band magnets remove liberated steel, resulting in steel-free or lowsteel tyre chips and rubber mulch.
Rubber granules or crumb rubber are a key ingredient in various products, including sports surfaces, modified bitumen and automotive components.
A smart investment
Volvo Certified Rebuilds offer an affordable, reliable, and sustainable alternative to buying new machinery.
Uptime, reliability, and costefficiency are key to maintaining a competitive edge in the construction industry.
When equipment reaches the end of its initial service life, businesses are often faced with a difficult decision, should they purchase new machinery, or is there a more cost-effective and reliable option?
Volvo’s Certified Rebuilds offer a solution that combines the best of both worlds, extending the life of equipment while delivering like-new performance and quality.
The machines are updated with the latest technical specifications where possible and like-new condition.
The maintenance process is comprehensive, designed to restore Volvo equipment to its original condition, using only genuine Volvo parts and certified technicians.
The rebuild process involves a thorough inspection, disassembly, replacement of worn parts, and reassembly to
The result is equipment that performs like new at a fraction of the cost of buying brandnew machinery.
The rebuilds ensure customers can save on costs to reinvest into other business areas, such as expanding equipment stores, enhancing team’s capabilities, or improving operational processes.
Volvo’s Certified Rebuilds can revolutionsie old machinery, eliminating the need to buy a brand new machine. Images: CJD Equipment
machines like excavators, wheel loaders, and articulated haulers.
The rebuilds provide a more affordable alternative to purchasing a new machine.
The rebuild process involves replacing worn components, such as the engine, transmission, hydraulics, and structural parts, ensuring the machine runs smoothly for many more years. This is especially beneficial for businesses that want to maximise their initial equipment investment return.
Only genuine Volvo parts designed specifically for Volvo equipment will be used throughout the rebuild process, ensuring the highest performance, durability, and safety levels.
Moreover, the rebuild process is performed by Volvo-certified technicians who have the expertise and training to restore the machine to its optimal condition.
Their knowledge of Volvo equipment ensures that the rebuild is carried out with precision and care, meeting Volvo’s strict quality standards.
CJD Equipment states that a rebuilt machine will perform just like it did when it was first delivered.
Customers can operate with peace of mind, knowing that their equipment will meet their demands, day in and day out, without compromising on performance.
Other benefits include reducing the need for new machines, therefore minimising waste and reducing the environmental footprint of manufacturing new machines.
This approach champions a circular economy, maximising resource efficiency and extending the useful life of valuable assets.
“It’s not just about repairing; it’s about reimagining the entire life cycle of heavy machinery for a more sustainable future,” says CJD Equipment.
Warranty Coverage is another advantage of opting for a rebuild.
When investing in a certified rebuild, clients receive a warranty that covers the parts and labour used during the process.
FLEXIBILITY IS KEY
Understanding that no two businesses are alike, Volvo offers a range of flexible rebuild packages.
Whether a partial rebuild or a complete overhaul, Volvo works closely with customers to design a solution that fits all varying requirements and budgets.
These can include; a powertrain rebuild which focuses on the heart of the machine, a hydraulics system overhaul which ensures smooth and efficient operation or a complete machine rebuild which is a comprehensive renewal from top to bottom.
CJD Equipment recommends a rebuild once the machine has reached a certain age, or if the machine has experienced extensive wear but is still in relatively good structural condition.
If the machine shows signs of wear in key components such as the engine, hydraulics, or transmission, but the frame and structure are intact, CJD Equipment suggests a rebuild could be the perfect solution.
Some signs a rebuild is required could include an abundance of high maintenance costs for repairs and parts
replacement, increased downtime, or frequent breakdowns affecting productivity. As well as declining performance in terms of fuel efficiency, power, and speed and worn-out components that are critical to the operation of the machine.
THE PROCESS
To begin the rebuild, the machine will undergo a complete inspection to assess its condition and identify any worn or damaged parts needing replacing.
Then, the machine will be carefully disassembled to allow for detailed inspection and replacement of parts. At this stage, worn-out parts, such as the engine, transmission, hydraulic system, and other critical components, will be replaced with genuine Volvo elements.
After the replacement stage, the machine will be reassembled and tested to ensure that it meets Volvo’s high standards for performance and safety.
A final inspection ensures that the rebuilt machine performs like new, with improved reliability, efficiency, and productivity.
By restoring Volvo equipment to its original condition, CJD Equipment ensures the machine will run for years to come.
For more information, visit: www.cjd.com.au
Volvo’s Certified Rebuilds use authentic Volvo parts.
Driving away dumping
Waste Response Teams deployed to target illegally dumped rubbish have helped reduce Hume City Council’s clean-up bill. It’s just one of the ways the municipality is cleaning up.
In response to a spike in illegally dumped rubbish around the streets of Melbourne’s northern outer suburbs, Hume City Council introduced its Waste Response Program in October 2023.
Jeni Jackson, Waste Operations Coordinator for Hume City Council
“The incident rates of dumped rubbish were increasing rapidly and the cost that council was spending on the removal of dumped rubbish was increasing every year,” she says.
“It also became very clear from our communities that they wanted council
With the aim to reduce illegal dumping at the source, the council took a preventative approach rather than having to correct behaviour after the dumping had occurred.
“People learn by seeing what other people do,” Jeni says.
“If residents watch us pick up dumped rubbish with no intervention for the person responsible to take accountability, they will think that is the correct way to get rid of materials.
“The aim of the trial was to help residents understand legal ways of disposing of their unwanted furniture, electrical items, mattresses and other items, instead of abandoning them on the nature strip.”
The Waste Response Program involved deploying teams of two person crews across 12 suburbs, on the lookout for rubbish dumped on nature strips.
“If crews drive past a house with rubbish, they will doorknock and hand out pamphlets to let the community know about hard rubbish collection, free tip passes and council drop off days,” Jeni says.
“We are really trying to change behaviour in the community by having open conversations about the correct way to dispose of hard rubbish.
“We care about the community. We want Hume to be a place where people love to live and a place where they can
During the 18-month trial the council engaged with over 22,000 households.
enjoy themselves without looking at piles of rubbish everywhere.”
The crews also doorknock neighbouring houses to inform residents of the dumping happening on the street, how to report it and how to dispose of their own waste.
Jeni says the team provides the resident the opportunity to do the right thing and remove the rubbish without threat of a fine.
“We felt it was important that we never threaten them with fines or other methods of enforcement,” she says.
“This way, the experience will remain friendly and become a positive interaction between Hume City Council and the community members.”
The program was made permanent in March 2025.
Jeni says the council considers the trial to be a tremendous success, engaging with over 22,000 households during the 18-month period.
She says most residents were willing to do the right thing and learn the correct way to dispose of their rubbish –most times even booking a hard rubbish collection on the spot.
“We measured the program’s success through the number of jobs the crews attended and also from feedback they provided,” she says.
“If the resident moved the rubbish or booked a hard waste collection, we took that as a successful outcome.”
Jeni says crews often reported that residents were grateful the council had taken the time to educate its residents.
“More often than not, feedback indicated that residents didn’t know they were doing the wrong thing, and they appreciated the opportunity to correct their behaviour,” she says.
“We have absolutely noticed respect within the community, and we acknowledge that people aren’t purposely doing the wrong thing.”
Understanding that Hume is a “growth municipality”, Jeni says the
team is aware there is always going to be the need for ongoing education.
“There are new and emerging subdivisions which need support with disposing waste correctly and that is something we are going to continue working through,” she says.
“We have a highly transient population which means a lot of renters move in and out of the municipality and need to be educated on Hume’s way of doing things.
“Council also has new developments and new residents coming into Hume frequently, so there’s always people who require education on council waste services.”
Another indicator that the initiative has proven successful is a reduction in council dollars spent on hard rubbish collections.
“We have consistently monitored the cost illegal dumping has had on the council. This year, for the first time in many years, we saw a reduction,” says Jeni.
In addition to the Waste Response Program, Hume City Council recently increased its number of Hume Clean Days from one Saturday to a whole weekend each quarter. On Hume Clean Days, residents can drop off a number
of large and bulky items, including mattresses and couches, as well as car and truck tyres, at council’s resource recovery centres in Campbellfield and Sunbury.
To help the region’s larger acreage properties, organics was recently added as an acceptable material.
It’s one of the many options the council is trying to give residents to dispose of waste responsibly.
“During our most recent September, December and March Hume Clean Days, residents dropped off 403 couches, 958 mattresses and 2722 tyres,” Jeni says.
“Since we introduced the acceptance of organics in September 2024, we’ve received 415 loads of garden waste.
“We are definitely seeing an increased amount of material coming through.”
Jeni hopes other councils can draw on Hume’s success to adopt similar practices across their municipalities.
“We know many councils across Australia are facing the same issues as we did with illegal dumping, so we wanted to share our success story,” she says.
“It is a great initiative and has changed Hume for the better.”
Hume City Council has found success in its Waste Response Program since its introduction in 2023. Images: Hume City Council
16 years to smarter waste
City of Coffs Harbour unveils ambitious waste strategy for a sustainable future.
The City of Coffs Harbour is embarking on a transformative journey towards smarter waste and resource management with the recent adoption of its new Resource Recovery and Waste Strategy.
The comprehensive plan, unveiled at Waste 2025, the annual waste conference held in Coffs Harbour, sets a clear roadmap for the next 16 years, aiming to significantly reduce waste sent to landfill and foster a more circular economy.
Mayor Nikki Williams highlighted the significance of this milestone, stating, “we now have a clear and achievable roadmap to guide us through the next 16 years of smarter waste resource recovery and management.”
“This strategy marks a significant step towards a more circular economy, one where we reduce the creation of waste and maximise opportunities for recycling and reuse.”
Nikki says the development of the strategy comes at a crucial time for Coffs Harbour with the local government area’s landfill nearing its capacity, as well as increasing regulatory demand.
and harness economies of scale to meet the community’s increasing waste needs in the most cost-efficient way.
The current waste generation figures also underscore the urgency for action.
She says it’s more important than ever for the city to innovate, collaborate
“Currently, the average household in Coffs Harbour produces about 1400 kilograms of waste each year – 400 kilograms of that is from the red bin. With a large growing population of 80,000 residents, this reinforces the need to reduce, recover, recycle our waste streams while avoiding products going into landfill wherever possible,” she says.
A key aspect of the strategy is collaboration. The City of Coffs Harbour is working with neighbouring councils on the Mid North Coast, fostering a consistent and progressive approach to waste management that benefits from economies of scale.
Nikki says this regional collaboration is expected to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of waste services across the coast.
Coffs Harbour Mayor Nikki Williams addresses the audience during the opening day of Waste 2025. Image: Impact Environmental
To further engage the community and provide convenient access to information, the Coffs Coast Waste App was recently launched.
The app was designed to help residents stay informed and organised by providing bin collection reminders, recycling disposal information and interactive maps with drop off and disposal points.
Future updates to the app will include more features such as access to bulky waste collection services and vouchers.
“We stand at the edge of an exciting decade of transformation in how we may create waste and recover resources.”
Nikki Williams, Mayor, City of Coffs Harbour
The success of the strategy also relies heavily on partnerships with industry players. The city recently welcomed JJ Richards and Sons as the new waste collection and processing service provider.
Nikki says JJ Richards brings a strong commitment to customer service and decades of localised industry experience as well as a focus on efficiency and innovation.
“With all stakeholders working together, I’m confident we can divert more waste from landfill and
deliver lasting environmental, economic and community benefits,” she says.
Looking ahead, Nikki is optimistic about the future of waste management in Coffs Harbour.
“Here on the Coffs Coast, we stand at the edge of an exciting decade of transformation in how we may create waste and recover resources. We’ve got a forward-thinking strategy in place and a solid commitment to innovation, collaboration and community engagement. I am confident we can create meaningful, lasting change.”
The City of Coffs Harbour’s new Resource Recovery and Waste Strategy represents a significant commitment to environmental sustainability and efficient resource management.
Through a combination of strategic planning, regional collaboration, technological innovation, and community engagement, Coffs Harbour is poised to make significant strides in reducing its environmental footprint and building a more sustainable future for its residents.
The new strategy will help protect Coffs Harbour’s natural beauty such as Tidal Creek on Diggers Beach. Image: lkonya/stock.adobe.com
Rethinking waste: Shifting perspectives
Each year, the Coffs Harbour Waste Conference unites the industry’s brightest minds to tackle the sector’s most urgent and complex issues. Waste 2025 unlocked a whole new level.
Waste 2025 began with a call for a paradigm shift in perceptions around our relationship with waste.
Thomas Freeman, Conference Convenor and Managing Director of Impact Environmental, opened with a personal anecdote about how easily a shift in perspective can turn a problem into an opportunity.
Freeman spent years trying unsuccessfully to eradicate an invasive vine in his backyard before discovering it was edible, instantly transforming his view of the plant from nuisance waste to valuable resource.
With obvious parallels for the waste industry, it was an ideal segue into a three-day deep dive into the sector’s most pressing issues. Freeman told
participants: “The technical work of recycling and transforming waste into a resource is quite valuable, but the educational and cultural shifts needed are just as important.”
This focus on transformation infused the most dynamic and relevant conference to date. The program homed in on timely themes including the new food organics and garden organics
The NSW EPA booth proved popular. Images: Impact Environmental
(FOGO) legislation, energy from waste, circular economy initiatives and the role of education.
“The infrastructure stream was very popular this year – particularly with the release of the New South Wales Waste and Circular Infrastructure Plan, announced by Environment Minister Penny Sharpe at the conference,” Thomas says.
“Sydney is fast running out of landfill space and the volume of FOGO requiring processing is growing, so it was great to be able to explore this in detail. There was also a lot of interest in the energy from waste stream.”
The revamped program – featuring more than 110 presenters, over 80 exhibitions and a host of workshops, panel discussions and networking events – drew almost 800 participants.
Among the highlights was a keynote address by NSW Environment Protection Authority Chief Executive Officer Tony Chappel, outlining the state’s progression to a circular economy. Emphasising the current year as a crucial opportunity, he called on everyone to “step up to the challenge” and drive the necessary change to achieve cradle-tocradle circularity.
Australian Council of Recycling Chief Executive Officer Suzanne Toumbourou also spoke on what she believes should be top priorities for the Federal Government.
Suzanne urged national-level intervention to bolster state and local efforts, calling for market demand creation for domestically recycled content, clarity on packaging reform policy and product stewardship schemes, and addressing the urgent threat batteries and electronics pose to recycling infrastructure.
Waste Management and Resource Recovery Association Australia’s Gayle Sloan led experts from across the resource recovery supply chain in a
popular panel discussion on Australia’s progression towards its 2030 resource recovery targets and whether they can be achieved.
Key takeaways included the need for accelerated infrastructure and market development, and robust stakeholder collaboration to drive recycling and recovery progress through real buy-back and reuse of materials.
Other streams explored infrastructure, collection, equipment and technology, with this year’s hybrid event format offering live broadcasts for all sessions. Despite heavy rainfall, the outdoor equipment demonstrations drew enthusiastic audiences throughout the event.
Thomas Freeman, Conference Convenor, delivers the opening address.
This year’s event included more than 80 exhibitions.
As in previous years, the conference’s social events program was also a crowd favourite.
“We’ve had very positive feedback about the strong program this year, and as always, people loved seeing familiar faces and renewing connections,” Thomas says. “The mixture of knowledge sharing and relationship building is fundamental in the conference remaining such an important event in Australia’s waste industry calendar.”
City of Coffs Harbour Mayor Nikki Williams said it was an exciting time to host the annual conference, with the city’s recent adoption of its new 16-year Resource Recovery and Waste Strategy.
For more information, visit: www.coffswasteconference.com.au/2025
The opening day included a Welcome to Country by Uncle Richard from the Garlambirla Aboriginal Elders Group.
GARWOOD INTERNATIONAL, LITTERPACT COMPACTOR
Garwood International’s LitterPact series of side loading compactors is designed to solve accessibility challenges.
The LitterPact’s light body means it can access all roads a conventional 4WD can, making it suitable for parks and gardens, remote or regional communities with small collection runs.
The body has a simple packing mechanism, operated either by manual or electric controls, which actuate the hydraulic system providing power for bin lifter operation, packing, raising the rear door, ejection of the load and optional high pressure water blaster.
It can be fitted to any 4×2 and 6×4 cab chassis. Sizes range from four cubic metres through to 18 cubic metres.
A unique “sweep and pack” action with an ejector panel built into the body is designed for the pickup of general recyclables and garden waste. The machine uses the ejector panel to expel the contents rather than tip the load.
Safety features include four cameras – rear view, driver’s side, hopper and on the lifter.
GCM ENVIRO, TANA RAVEN DISC SCREEN
Designed for ease of use, the TANA Raven X550T disc screen, screens material into two fractions as standard – oversize and undersize – with an option of three fraction screening – oversize, undersize and fines.
A key feature is its patented modular screening deck, which allows for quick adjustments to the desired particle size in just 30 minutes.
The smart anti-wrapping system combines Tana’s patented screening discs with the advanced automation of the Tana Control System, which detects jams and adjusts operation accordingly.
Material-specific programs allow customisation of the anti-wrapping process, optimising performance based on the material being processed. This seamless integration enhances efficiency, simplifies maintenance and reduces costs.
All fraction conveyors can be lowered into a horizontal position for easy cleaning and maintenance.
The tracks on the Tana Raven provide mobility and stability, allowing the machine to operate efficiently on uneven terrain and in challenging work environments.
TanaConnect digital portal is included, providing detailed insights into machine condition and performance, enabling real-time fleet management.
The Litterpact has a fast compaction cycle. Image: Garwood International
TANA Raven X550T disc screen can screen almost any waste material. Image: GCM Enviro
KOMATSU FOREST, PETERSON 4310B DRUM CHIPPER
The 4310B Track Mounted Drum Chipper is one of five models in the latest of a long line of chipping and grinding machines produced by Peterson. It is suited for high volume biomass production with a wide variety of feed material, from brush and small feedstock, to logs up to 60 centimetres in diameter.
Powered by a Caterpillar C18 Tier II 579 kW engine, the 4310B was designed for operations requiring high production and frequent moves between jobs.
It provides chip length from three to 32 millimetres and can produce from 60 to 110 tonnes an hour.
Key features include a large drum, sloped deck for ease of feeding, optional sizing grates, optional feed accelerator and a top loading or end loading spout, depending on application.
Peterson specialises in developing processing equipment that turns low-grade organic materials into high value products. It has more than 40 years’ experience delivering heavy-duty machines that meet market demand for industry-leading performance, reliability and quality.
WASTE INITIATIVES, EAGLE TYRE DEBEADER
Eagle’s Tyre Debeaders remove bead wire from tyres prior to shredding – ranging from standard passenger to large off-the-road (OTR) tyres –resulting in cleaner output and extending the life of shredders and other downstream equipment.
The Eagle OTR Debeader is a trailer-mounted unit, purpose-built for mobile debeading of radial OTR tyres from 20.5/R25 to 59/80R63. Key features include hydraulically adjustable plates to suit varying bead sizes, an integrated shear for trimming excess rubber, and a hydraulic crane for safe bead wire removal. A wireless remote enables precise control and flexible operation. Available in electric or diesel.
As part of Eagle’s OTR Downsizing System, the debeader works in conjunction with halving and shearing units to reduce oversized mining tyres by up to 70 per cent – simplifying transport and preparing tyres for further processing.
Eagle tyre recycling equipment is engineered for high-throughput shredding – delivering processing efficiency and reducing wear on downstream equipment – making it a practical addition for tyre recycling facilities across Australia. Exclusively available through Vertech by Waste Initiatives.
Durability and availability are key assets of the 4310B Track Mounted Drum Chipper. Image: Komatsu Forest
The Eagle Tyre Debeader results in a cleaner output. Image: Waste Initiatives
Waste Management Review
Delivers high quality, multi-platform media communications that showcase the world-class performance of the Australian waste management and resource recovery industries.
Waste Management Review is published 11 times a year and contains:
• A news round-up
• Interviews with industry leaders
• In-depth profiles on innovative people, facilities and services
• Coverage on international developments
• Updates and analysis on new regulations and policies
• Successful supplier/client showcases
• Details of new-to-market products and equipment.
and get every Waste Management Review magazine issue delivered direct to your door.
www.wastemanagementreview.com.au
Waste contracting made practical
Mike Ritchie, Managing Director, MRA Consulting Group helps councils navigate effective waste contracts and tendering.
Waste/recycling contracts are generally the largest and most valuable contracts that a council signs. These are also the most important greenhouse gas decisions a council can make.
Waste decisions also touch every household, every ratepayer and every voter, every week. So, getting them right is important.
In my view, it is not difficult to put in place a proper contract that runs well; to the benefit of all parties involved.
Many readers can recall examples of multi-year tender processes that have failed, for many reasons – no one tendered, no tenderers were selected, no contract awarded, contract awarded but not executed, contract failed and ended in dispute.
This article explores some simple principles of tendering and contracting that MRA recommends for all the local government contracts we assist with. Here is the short version:
1. Be clear on the scope.
2. Understand risk and allocate it properly.
3. Model Contracts save time, risk and money.
4. Understand capital and provide for its funding.
Scope – For collection contracts, this is straightforward. But processing can be complicated. Who is responsible for what, when and how? Take time and make sure all the stakeholders are on board with what is being contracted. This is particularly true for groups of councils in a regional contract.
MRA uses a “Tenderer Questionnaire” with about 100 questions to document exactly what the scope and specification need to do.
Risk – Understand risks. They are unavoidable in contracts but the key is to assign them to the party best able to manage and mitigate them. For example, put ‘Product Commodity Risk’ on the material recovery facility (MRF) – they understand commodity trading and do it every day. Councils do not. But don’t put landfill levy increases onto the MRF. They cannot mitigate it or avoid it. If it is passed to them, it will just cut their margins and impose a commercial stress. Each risk should be identified and allocated according to who is best to manage it.
Model Contracts – use them. Most of the risks have been identified and allocated (sensibly). Put a good waste adviser, probity and legal team together and you have the package.
Some free advice – don’t use the council’s “General Services Contract”. It is not designed for waste. Similarly, don’t commission lawyers to write a new contract. It will cost a fortune and not add value. The lawyers’ role should be to review the contract documents you propose to use. Most Model Contracts have been tested legally, and they do the job, you just need to make sure the specification deals with the scope and risk. If the Model Contract does not quite do the job, amend it. Don’t reinvent the wheel.
Capital – Generally councils should allow the contractor to depreciate their capital over a longer period if
Mike Ritchie, Managing Director, MRA Consulting Group.
they don’t want the gate fee or service fee, to explode. The higher the capital contribution (think new MRF, new trucks etc) the longer the contract period. That will keep the gate fee or lift cost at a reasonable level. Trying to crunch high capital contributions into a short contract period will result in a high unit cost.
Probity – Get the probity adviser in, early and often. Too many tenders get derailed due to conflicts.
Contract structure – Most collection and processing contracts are Purchaser Provider. Council ‘purchases’ a service from a trucking collector or a MRF operator, composter or landfill/energy-fromwaste ‘provider’.
Although it does happen, it is relatively rare that a council or group of councils procures the construction of a new facility.
This is where Build-Own-Operate (BOO), Build-Own-Operate-Transfer (BOOT), Design and Construct (D&C) and Alliance Partnering come into their strengths. If you are seeking a new capital build, then seek proper contract structure advice. Properly explore options before landing on the contract model.
Variations – Some contractors put in big lists of variations during the tender process. I caution about accepting large amendments during the tender process itself. If a wide range of variations are accepted, it can mean that the tendered contract is fundamentally different and should therefore be re-tendered, so all competitors have an equal opportunity.
All operating contracts should have variation clauses, if nothing else but to allow for innovation and changes in law. Price for example, should be subject to variations for consumer price index (CPI) or rise and fall (depending on the contract length and what it is for). Holding a contractor to a fixed price, irrespective of
all else, is a recipe for failure. At least talk.
Contamination – I call out contamination as a special risk in the waste/recycling sector. Who should own contamination risk? The answer is of course where it can be best managed and mitigated. That is almost always shared between council and the operator.
Council should own the contamination risk associated with education (or lack of it) and the contamination that is presented to a processor. This is done by the inclusion of ‘contamination bands’ into MRF, anaerobic digestion and composting contracts (and collection, where appropriate).
The council pays a marginally higher price for higher contamination rates. That sends the right price signal to council and compensates the processor for additional costs of dealing with contamination.
Forcing a processor to take all contamination risk at any level of contamination may feel like a win at first but it will lead to contract pain and disputation over time. It will obviously result in higher prices as processors hedge risk.
Along the same vein though, the processor should bear the contamination risk for the products it produces. If it produces a contaminated compost and cannot sell it for a high price, that is the processor’s risk. If it produces a high-grade compost that sells brilliantly, then it enjoys the higher revenues.
If the parties decide to share these risks, then that is equally good. Just define them properly and share the upside and downside.
Education – This follows on from the contamination discussion. Some councils ask their collection contractor to manage community education (usually for simplicity).
I am not a big fan. Councils are best placed to target education to the right people for the right reasons. If there are contamination bands in the contract, then the economic signals are direct and obvious. Where the collection contractor is not the processor, education priorities can be confused and economic signals weakened.
It is now common for councils to include the costs of education in their collection contracts (e.g. $510/hh/yr paid by the collector to council annually, thereby recognising education as an essential and ongoing, annual cost of the waste service).
Council can then engage anyone it likes to deliver the education services. It maximises the targeting of the education spend to what is needed.
Regional contracts – One of the biggest uncertainties in multi-council tenders is the commitment of tonnes. If you want a lower price (usually the point of regional tendering) then it is crucial that tenderers have certainty about the tonnage they are tendering for.
If each council keeps an opt in/opt out position it undermines certainty and will result in a less competitive tender process and higher prices.
MRA recommends that councils pre-commit their tonnes prior to tender. In practical terms we suggest they agree a threshold price before commencing the tender process. (The threshold is always confidential).
If the price comes in under that threshold, then council tonnes have been locked in already. It gives tenderers confidence that their tendering effort will be respected, and a contract will be forthcoming to the winner. It eliminates the perception of “fishing expeditions”.
For more information, visit: www.mraconsulting.com.au
Turning waste into value – from Dubai to Down Under
From initial planning to long-term operation, Kanadevia Inova delivers complete thermal and biological Waste to Energy plants. As an experienced EPC contractor, we handle every step – develop, design, build, operate, maintain. Our track record of more than 1,600 plants worldwide speaks for itself – including one of the world’s largest WtE facilities in Dubai. Check our references.
Mobile disc screen with superior throughput and high speed. All you need in one modular package..
