Young Eco-Warriors Get a Behind-the-Scenes Look at Waste Management in Newcastle

newy.com.au – A new generation of environmental advocates has been given a firsthand look at waste minimisation and recycling, thanks to a specially designed children’s tour of the Summerhill Waste Management Centre.

More than 85 participants attended two free tours of the facility, gaining an up-close perspective on landfill operations and resource recovery in action. The initiative, run by City of Newcastle, is part of its long-term vision to reduce unnecessary waste and improve recycling rates.

City of Newcastle CEO Jeremy Bath emphasised the importance of community engagement in achieving sustainable waste management goals.

“Education plays a crucial role in our waste strategy, and these tours help residents, particularly children, understand the significance of recycling and waste reduction,” Mr Bath said.

“Currently, we divert around 40 per cent of household waste from landfill through recycling efforts. Programs like these empower our community to make informed decisions about waste disposal and sustainability.”

Led by the waste services team, the tour covered key areas of the facility, including the Resource Recovery Centre, Green Waste section, Landfill, and the Solar Farm. Children also participated in an engaging education session where they learned about the challenges of disposing of everyday items like batteries from toys and takeaway coffee cups.

An interactive rubbish sorting game and a hands-on activity where children built their own mini bins added to the fun, before they had the exciting opportunity to step inside a real garbage truck and meet the driver.

Managing Director of Waste Services, David Witherdin, highlighted the impact of engaging children in waste education.

“Kids are natural advocates for change, and by teaching them about proper waste sorting and recycling, they can take that knowledge home and influence their families,” Mr Witherdin said.

“Our drivers see this enthusiasm daily, whether it’s kids waving at the trucks during kerbside collections or eagerly lining up to get a closer look during these tours. By tapping into their curiosity, we can help inspire the next generation to be champions of sustainable living.”

The tours, which were fully booked, follow the success of the first-ever children’s tour in September last year, which was introduced in response to growing interest from families attending City of Newcastle’s regular community tours.

For more information about upcoming tours, workshops, and sustainability initiatives, visit City of Newcastle’s What’s On website.