WasteQ 2015 National Conference begins in Cairns

Regional waste management and resource recovery will be the focus of one of the biggest ever delegations at this year’s WasteQ Conference in Cairns on 10 and 11 September.

Hosted by the Queensland Branch of the Waste Management Association of Australia (WMAA), the 2015 conference will examine the challenges, opportunities and future prospects that face waste management in regional Australia.

Cairns Mayor Bob Manning said the conference was a great opportunity to explore new options and showcase recent investments in recycling and waste management in the Cairns region.

“Like many things, waste management in a regional setting like Cairns comes with its own unique set of challenges,” Cr Manning said.

“As a Council in such a key environmental area, it is our priority to ensure we are at the forefront of waste management and that our community are involved and educated.

“Over the past few years, we have been working on improving processes, upgrading facilities to increase capacity and furthering community education on reducing waste, and re-using and recycling.

“What better way to showcase the importance of innovative waste management in the far north than holding this conference at The Tanks Arts Centre in recycled fuel tanks, surrounded by the Waste Re-discovered Sculpture exhibition by local artists,” he said.

Deputy Mayor Terry James, who will deliver the official opening address, said the conference would explore a broad range of waste management topics over the two days.

“Day 1 of the conference will look at regional planning, how to get good quality data and the challenges and innovations around landfill,” Cr James said.

“Day 2 will then move into the future of waste management, alternatives to landfill and regional resource recovery including a presentation by Cairns Regional Council on the recent upgrade of our Material Recycling Facility,” he said.

Special guests at the conference will include Queensland Government Minister for Environment and Heritage Dr Steven Miles, Chair of Regional Development Australia Mr Allan Dale and Ms Miranda Ransome, WMAA National President.