Zoe Moffatt
Macedon Ranges’ waste facility has been named as a finalist in the Local Government National Awards for its efforts in processing tree and storm debris.
The council’s flagship facility in Romsey opened in August 2021 in partnership with Bushfire Recovery Victoria, and has processed more than 65,000 tonnes of debris.
Macedon Ranges chief executive Bernie O’Sullivan said the site works to repurpose the debris and return it to the community.
“The site allowed us to clear and process storm debris faster and on an enormous scale,” Mr O’Sullivan said.
“By reimagining storm-damaged timber as an opportunity to provide value for the community rather than simply as waste to be cleared, we assisted residents’ practical, environmental and social recovery.”
The debris from Macedon Ranges and other storm-affected areas throughout Victoria, gets upcycled into free timber, fence posts, sleepers, stakes, firewood, fish habitat, mulch, sawdust and more.
Macedon Ranges council said the products upcycled so far are worth over $29 million in market value.
“The success of the project is a testament to the foundational role local government can play in changing the way response and recovery works in the aftermath of natural disasters,” Mr O’Sullivan said.
By upcycling the debris instead of using traditional mulching methods, the council has avoided stockpiles of mulch, which Mr O’Sullivan said can cause problems.
“An oversupply of mulch could have led to other issues such as potential fire hazards,” he said.
“By thinking outside the square and working with partner agencies, we have been able to address this problem and at the same time, give back to impacted communities in a very tangible way.”
The site, which processes material from the June 2021 storm, will soon be accepting material from other events.
