We are in the middle of National Recycling Week, and one of Lismore City Council’s most popular recycling options is about to get bigger and better.  

Next week, Council will install a second processing machine, known as a singulator, at the Return and Earn bulk site at the Lismore Recycling and Recovery Centre in Monaltrie. This will double the amount of recycling that can be processed and help to reduce wait times. 

Unfortunately, this means the site will need to be closed for a week while the machine is installed. It will reopen on Monday, 24 November, with a community BBQ to thank residents and launch the upgraded service. 

A singulator separates and feeds containers onto the line at a steady rate. With two units, staff can move more containers per hour with fewer stoppages. 

Lismore City Mayor Steve Krieg said the investment into doubling capacity demonstrates Council’s commitment to recycling. 

“Our community takes recycling seriously, and National Recycling Week is about making it easier for people to do the right thing,” he said.  

“Community members turn up with crates, bags and trailers full of recyclables every week to use the Return and Earn bulk site. It is great for families, clubs and fundraisers, and this upgrade supports that effort with faster turnarounds and fewer delays.” 

Acting Waste Operations Coordinator Kadijah Runge said the improvements mean better processing and traffic safety. 

“The works include refined traffic flow on site for safer entry and exit, clearer site navigation, and system tuning so large bulk returns clear faster,” she said. 

“It is a practical upgrade that sets the facility up for the summer surge when families, events and community groups bring in higher volumes.” 

The result is a faster and smoother experience for residents, better uptime for the depot and a functioning deposit scheme for our community.  

During the brief shutdown, residents can keep recycling at Return and Earn machines at Southern Cross University and Woolworths Goonellabah.  

Bring your containers to the reopening from 10am on Monday, 24 November, grab a sausage, and see the improved setup in action.