Living Here
Scheduled landfill works to create more space for waste
It may have a strange name, but Benaraby Landfill’s piggyback liner system serves an important purpose for our region’s waste management and waste reduction goals.
We have about two-and-a-half years of available space for waste within the current active landfill Cell 3a at Benaraby Landfill.
Cell 3a was constructed in 2021, with capacity forecasts in mid-December 2024 indicating the cell is at 45 per cent capacity and predicted to reach capacity by June 2027.
Gladstone Region Councillor and GRC’s Local Authorities Waste Management Action Committee (LAWMAC) representative Mellissa Holzheimer said that capital works are now underway and are aimed at maximising the current landfill airspace capacity at Benaraby Landfill.
“The piggyback liner system needs to be installed against the adjoining cell wall to prevent potential contamination of ground water and soil,” Councillor Holzheimer said.
“It is also an effective method to create more landfill space, as it allows waste in the current cell to reach the height of the adjoining cell, and ensures Council meets its environmental and legislative requirements.
“Works will include relocation of landfill gas infrastructure, civil and earthworks and the installation of a geomembrane liner.”
Visitors to Benaraby Landfill are asked to be mindful of works occurring, plan for increased traffic through entry gates and on roads within the facility, and to follow any signage or directions.
Works are expected to be completed by 30 June 2025, weather and site conditions permitting.
Cr Holzheimer added that these works are an important reminder that by recycling right, everyone can help improve resource recovery rates and assist in extending the life of our landfill cells.
“Since launching its Community Waste Education and Engagement Plan in March 2024, Council has really focused on educating the community on correct recycling behaviours and waste disposal through face-to-face delivery, our newsletters and website as well as engaging with the younger generations through school tours.,” she said.
“The installation of a piggyback liner highlights the importance of reducing, reusing and recycling to minimise waste and extend the life of our landfill.
“As residents of this beautiful region, engaging in responsible waste disposal practices today, ensures a cleaner, safer future for our region tomorrow.”
Visit www.gladstone.qld.gov.au/waste-education for more information about Council’s waste management and education initiatives, including tips on what to place in your red landfill bin and what items should be placed in the yellow recycling bin.
Visit www.gladstone.qld.gov.au/public-notices-outages to keep track of this project.
Download this media release (PDF)
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