Cook Shire Council is rolling out a new bin-labelling program to improve waste management, reduce contamination and ensure fairness and consistency across the Shire.
From 1 July 2025, only bins that have been officially labelled by Council will be collected a part of the kerbside waste service.
“We know that some residents have concerns about waste service costs,” said Mayor Robyn Holmes. “This new bin labelling program is designed to introduce safer waste handling methods, consistency and cost-efficiency to the current system so that no one is unfairly subsidising others.”
What makes a bin eligible for collection?
To receive a label—and be eligible for ongoing kerbside collection—your bin must:
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- Be in good repair (no cracks, two functioning wheels, lid that closes securely)
- Be the correct size/type as recognised by Council
- Be listed on your property’s rates notice and included in a paid waste service
The label not only confirms that a bin is compliant and the service paid for, but also helps collection crews quickly identify which bins are safe to collect. It also acts as a reminder to residents about which items—like batteries and e-waste—should never go into household bins, and where they can be disposed of responsibly.
“This is about making our waste system more efficient, more sustainable and environmentally friendly and ultimately more cost-effective for ratepayers,” said Mayor Holmes.
Mayor Holmes added: “This is just the first step. Once we get the current system running smoothly and fairly, we can start exploring additional services, such as kerbside recycling. But we need to get the basics right first.”
Support to assist residents to get it sorted:
To make it easier for everyone to get ready, Council is offering a range of support options and initiatives:
1. Before the audit (now until 12 May 2025)
- Check that your bins are in good condition and align with service your pay for
- If you have extra bins not yet part of your official service, submit the appropriate form to Council by 12 May so they can be assessed and included.
- Need a replacement? Receive a 25% discount when you purchase a new bin before 30 June 2025. All new bins purchased will be pre-labelled and ready for collection.
- Dispose of your old, damaged bin for free during Free Dumping Days (26 April – 11 May)
2. During the audit (from 12 May 2025)
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- Council will provide free bin repairs for eligible bins during the audit period (12 May–30 June), carried out as part of regular waste collection.
- Residents should ensure their bins are kerbside from 6 AM to 6 PM on their normal collection days.
- Residents who purchase new bins before 30 June 2025 will receive a 25% discount off the regular purchase price.
3. Other helpful support
- Free Dumping Days from 26 April – 11 May to dispose of broken bins.
- Trash Talk info stalls at the Cooktown Markets on Saturdays 3, 17 and 31 May. Drop by to ask questions, check bin compliance, or register to trial a free bin lock.
What happens after 1 July 2025?
Bins that are overfilled, facing the wrong way, or contain prohibited items (like batteries, paint, or e-waste) will receive a Get It Sorted reminder label. This is a helpful heads-up with guidance on how to correct the issue before your next collection.
“We encourage everyone to work with Council to comply within the proposed timeframes” Mayor Holmes said. “We’re here to support residents to get it sorted. Our goal is a safer, smarter system for everyone.”
If problems persist after the program comes into effect on 1 July, Council will be in contact however, it is understood that most residents will respond positively to this new initiative to support better waste management and disposal methods.
Full details and a comprehensive list of frequently asked questions are available at www.cook.qld.gov.au/nolabelnoservice
The Let’s Get it Sorted campaign is supported by the Queensland Government’s Recycling and Jobs Fund.
For more information contact Cook Shire Council via email to mail@cook.qld.gov.au or by phoning 4082 0500.
Pictured above (clockwise from the top): Cook Shire CEO, Brian Joiner and Mayor Robyn Holmes with community members giving their thumbs up for Council’s new bin labelling program and fairer, safer waste services.
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