Christmas brings people together, not bins

As Christmas gets closer by the day, Townsville City Council is urging the community to spread the Christmas joy by making sure their bins are spread at least half-a-metre apart when placed on the kerb.

Acting Mayor Ann-Maree Greaney said while she loves how Christmas brings the community together, it shouldn’t translate onto our city’s bins.

“Around December every year residents’ bin placement creeps closer together making it increasingly difficult for Council truck drivers to efficiently collect the city’s waste and recyclables,” Cr Greaney said.

“It’s important Townsville residents keep their bins clear of the festive cheer when they put them out for collection, not only do we want the community to spread the Christmas joy, but we want bins spread at least half-a-metre, or a good arm’s length apart.”

Cr Greaney reminded the community to remember to keep their bins one metre clear of objects including, cars, trees, mailboxes, and Christmas decorations on the footpath throughout the festive season.

“We love seeing the community’s joy around Christmas, but just remember when decorating, make sure you don't obstruct the bins, whether that be with overhead fairy lights, inflatable decorations or even vehicles, Keep at least a metre space around your bin from other items and place it on the kerb, not the road,” she said.

“And don’t forget, Council collects bins 365 days a year so don’t forget to put your bin out before 6am over the holidays.”

For more information and tips for a top bin collection, visit our Bin Collection Days page.