Semi-Automated Waste Disposal System (SAWDS) - Cobargo

Project typeWaste and Recycling
Project value$550,000
Project scheduleIn Progress
Completion Date09 September 2026

Project background

Since being severely impacted during the 2019/20 Black Summer bushfires, the Cobargo Waste and Recycling Centre has reopened to offer an interim waste disposal service for rural residents unable to receive a roadside waste collection service.

We are delivering a new, permanent solution for these residents with a semi-automated waste disposal system (SAWDS). The system uses two solar-powered compactors that accept and compact household waste and recyclables, with waste collected and managed in line with Council’s waste management plans.

This innovative solution is modelled off existing compactors within the Melbourne CBD and guided by Councils’ ongoing commitment to outstanding customer service.

Bega Valley Shire Council is responsible for providing waste collection and waste management services to its community. These services are highly technical, requiring a carefully considered balance of operational activity, asset management and business administration to achieve the best outcomes for the community. Waste operations are also heavily regulated by the state and federal governments.

Purpose

The key objectives of this project are:

The procurement of solar powered semi-automated waste compactors with customer interface and bin/chute sizing equivalent to normal household quantities of waste.
Community engagement and communications with eligible residents, and other stakeholders.
The project will use solar power to run compactors, cameras, lighting, security and access systems, with backup power available if needed.
Hook lift bins serviceable by existing contractors
Equipment suitably branded, signage, and other communication materials (pamphlets, user manuals etc.)
Training of staff and eligible residents.
Logistics support materials – such as maintenance manuals etc.

Funding

The SAWDS project is an operational project funded from the Waste Fund. The total revised project budget estimate is $550,000 covering equipment purchase, siteworks, system interfacing, internal salaries (sunk cost), community engagement materials, specialist consultants and minor project administration costs.

Connection to Council's Community Strategic Plan

This project is connect to Council's Community Strategic Plan through:

C - Our Environment
C.3 - Collaborate with partners and our community to support innovative approaches to waste minimisation and increase reuse and recycling opportunities
C3.2 - Implement and regularly review the adopted Waste Asset Management Plan

Frequently Asked Questions

Will the Cobargo Transfer Station be closed during the project?

No. The existing waste and recycling centre will continue to operate during the trial period on its normal 2 x half day roster and on completion of the trial be accessible for eligible landholders during daylight hours i.e. 7am – 6pm, 6 days per week.

What works will be carried out?

The site is being upgraded with an extension of the current hardstand pad for residents to drive through to deposit their waste and recyclables, and for a waste collection contractor to remove and exchange bins. Site fencing has been repaired with the addition of new fencing where needed. Site access will be incorporated with a card activated access system.

Concrete plinths are being installed with slide rails to house the compactors.

Solar panels will be installed within the site, and each compactor unit will have its own solar power supply to run without the need for mains electricity. Site lighting and security systems including CCTV cameras will be installed during February/March.

The compactor units will have fire identification sensors to protect the technology being used and "back to base” monitoring will provide operations with real time data to manage the service.

Who can use the new system?

This trial project will be available to eligible residents in the northern part of the shire who do not receive a waste collection service to their property.

Which community stakeholder groups were consulted and informed about the project?

Northern residents who will use the new system were consulted at an information session in March 2023, where feedback was gathered to understand local needs and shape a system designed to suit them.

How long will the trial run for?

The trial period may run for up to three months while we collate user information and evaluate a suitable and acceptable method of charging residents.