Shire's Waste Services recognised at WasteSorted Awards
Published on 09 October 2025
The Shire of Broome has been recognised at the 2025 WasteSorted Awards, winning the Regional Award for its leadership in waste reduction and reuse at the Waste Management Facility.
Despite the challenges of operating in a regional community, the Shire has spearheaded a series of initiatives that are transforming the way Broome manages its waste.
Recent WasteSorted Infrastructure Grants have enabled the construction of an all-weather e-waste drop-off area and the installation of mechanical sorting equipment to recover materials that would otherwise go to landfill.
Since opening in early 2024, the new area has facilitated the recovery of 25.5 tonnes of e-waste in 2023–24 and a further 28 tonnes to date in 2024–25, with materials transported to TechCollect for recycling.
Manual sorting at the tip face has also been expanded into the community drop-off area to intercept hazardous items – particularly batteries – which not only increases recovery but also reduces the risk of fire incidents.
Seasonal reuse areas have been established to encourage community recycling and upcycling, providing opportunities for residents to drop off items such as furniture, tools, timber, metal offcuts and other reusable goods.
These items can then be collected by other residents at no cost, fostering a culture of reuse and reducing the volume of waste sent to landfill.
Additional improvements to compaction and recovery practices at the site have further boosted diversion rates, ensuring more materials are captured and reused.
Acting CEO Jeremy Hall said the award was an important recognition of both the Waste Services team and the wider community.
“The Shire of Broome is proud to be recognised for our commitment to waste reduction and resource recovery,” Mr Hall said.
“These initiatives are not just about improving how we manage waste at the facility - they’re about creating opportunities for the community to reduce, reuse and recycle.
Together, we’re helping to build a greener and more sustainable Broome.”
Waste Education Officer Elena Marian also turned heads on the night of the awards in a custom-made gown adorned with recycled can tabs masterfully crafted by Broome Public Library librarian Lesley Marsh.
The annual WasteSorted Awards recognise Western Australia’s waste-reduction and recycling champions across business, education, community, government and not-for-profit sectors.