Drop off green waste, pick up free sand bags

Residents are encouraged to clear out their backyards and stock up on free sandbags to continue preparing for the wet season.

The annual wet season free green waste drop-off starts this Saturday (18 November), with residents able to drop their domestic green waste at any of Council’s waste transfer stations at no cost until Sunday 26 November.

Residents in coastal, low-lying or flood prone areas are also invited to grab free sandbags to use when severe weather threatens the region.

Cairns Acting Mayor Terry James said being prepared for the wet season is part of living in the tropics.

“Cairns residents are encouraged to be ready for whatever the season may bring,” he said.

“If you live in a low-lying or beachfront area, pick up some sandbags now and store them so they’re ready when you need them.”

“Waiting until a cyclone is on its way or heavy rainfall has started to get sandbags can use up valuable time that could be spent preparing your home and family.”

“People should also take the time now with the green waste drop off to clear gutters, cut back overhanging branches and tidy their yards.

Residents can go to Council’s website to check flood maps and know their zone using the ‘Storm Surge Search’, or by checking the map at the Cairns Disaster Dashboard.

Sandbags will be provided for residents to fill with sand on site.

Scoops for filling will be supplied. Sandbags are for residential use only and will be available from all of Council’s waste transfer stations until supplies run out.

Sandbags can be stored in a dry place out of direct sunlight for several months.

Residents can make a voluntary gold coin donation at the waste transfer station, which will support the Pyjama Foundation.

Residential green waste can be dropped off free of charge at the following locations:

• Portsmith Transfer Station - 7 days 8.30am to 5.15pm
• Smithfield Transfer Station - 7 days 8.30am to 5.15pm
• Gordonvale Transfer Station - 7 days 8.30am to 5.15pm
• Babinda Transfer Station - 7 days 8:30am to 5:15pm

Note: this offer is for domestic cars, utilities and/or trailers and light trucks (vehicle weight to GVM 4 tonnes). Normal rates apply for disposal of any other waste during this period, including green waste from garden maintenance contractors on behalf of residents.