In This Section
Knowing how to dispose of waste correctly helps reduce landfill, protect the environment and keep our Hinchinbrook clean and safe.
This page explains how different types of waste should be managed at home, including what belongs in your general waste bin, green waste options, composting, hazardous waste disposal and how to handle bulky items.
Your general waste bin (red lid) is for items that cannot be recycled or composted.
Food scraps and leftovers
Soft plastics (plastic bags, wrappers, cling wrap)
Nappies and sanitary products
Polystyrene and foam packaging
Broken household items that cannot be recycled
Vacuum dust, pet waste and tissues
Tips for using your bin:
Always place waste inside the bin with the lid closed
Do not overfill bins or leave items beside them
Keep recyclable, green and hazardous items out of general waste wherever possible
Green waste includes natural garden material that can be composted or mulched.
Accepted green waste
Grass clippings
Leaves
Small branches and prunings
Plants and flowers
Keep green waste free of plastic, soil, treated timber and rubbish to avoid contamination.
Composting is a simple way to reduce household waste and create nutrient‑rich soil for your garden.
What you can compost
Fruit and vegetable scraps
Coffee grounds and tea leaves
Grass clippings and leaves
Small garden prunings
Tips for Composting
Keep a balance of food scraps (greens) and dry materials such as leaves (browns)
Turn compost regularly to reduce odours and speed up breakdown
Avoid composting meat, dairy, oils or cooked food
Keep compost moist, but not wet
Benefits of composting:
reduce the amount of waste going to landfill
lower household bin use
improve soil health in gardens
Hazardous waste can be harmful to people, animals and the environment and must not be placed in household bins.
Household and agricultural chemicals
Paint and paint tins
Motor oils, fuels and lubricants
Batteries and some electronic items
Keep items in their original containers where possible
Never pour chemicals down drains or onto the ground
Transport items safely and securely
Hazardous waste must be taken to an approved drop‑off location. Contact Council for advice on how and where to safely dispose of these items.
Bulk or hard waste items are large household items that do not fit in wheelie bins.
Common items
Furniture
Mattresses
Whitegoods
Large household goods
How to dispose of bulk waste
Take items to an approved waste facility
Arrange appropriate collection or disposal for the item.
Always check requirements before transporting large items.
Illegal dumping and littering harm the environment and community and are offences under local laws. If you see illegal dumping or littering, please report it by calling Council on (07) 4776 4600.
Reducing waste benefits both households and the environment.
Reduce unnecessary purchases
Choose reusable products instead of single‑use items
Reuse goods where possible or donate unwanted items
Recycle correctly by placing accepted items in the recycling bin
Choose reusable bags, drink bottles and containers to reduce plastic waste in the community.
If you’re unsure how to dispose of an item:
Check Council’s recycling page
Use the #DontWasteHinchinbrook app which is available on Google Play and Apple Store
Recycle Mate
Contact Council on (07) 4776 4600 for advice