Public Notice - Help collection crews service bins safely

Published on 29 July 2026

Hinchinbrook Shire Council is reminding residents that bins may not be collected if they cannot be safely serviced by the collection vehicle.

Common reasons a bin may be missed include:

• Bins not placed out before 5.30am on collection day;
• Cars parked in front of or too close to bins;
• Bins placed too close to trees, power poles, signs or other obstacles;
• Overloaded bins that exceed the maximum weight limit;
• Items protruding from the bin, such as branches, timber, metal, cardboard or other materials;
• Hoses, ropes, cords and leads longer than one metre that can become tangled in collection machinery; and
• Incorrect materials placed in recycling bins.

To help ensure your bin is collected:

• Place bins out the night before collection or before 5.30am on collection day.
• Position bins on flat ground near the kerb with handles facing your property.
• Leave at least 0.5 metres between bins.
• Ensure bins are at least 1 metre clear of vehicles, trees, poles, signs and other obstructions.
• Keep all waste contained within the bin and ensure the lid can fully close.
• Cut hoses, ropes and leads into lengths of less than one metre before disposal.
• Only place accepted recyclable items in your recycling bin.

Following these simple steps helps collection crews operate safely and efficiently and reduces the likelihood of missed bin collections.

For more information visit the Waste and Recycling section of our website or call Council’s customer service centre on (07) 4776 4600.

MARY-ANNE UREN
Chief Executive Officer