In June 2002, the first collection of agricultural and veterinary containers was delivered to Agsafe’s drumMUSTER program for recycling in the Hinchinbrook Shire.
Over the first week, farmers began bringing in their used drums signalling the start of a great recycling story for the Herbert Valley. Collections grew from there and as word spread other chemical users began bringing in their containers to other collection sites in the region which now include Abegowrie, Halifax and Warren Hills.
Fast forward 18 years and the local growers have recycled over 202,000 drums!
This is a significant result from a shire that has been one of the shining lights of the cane growing region of Queensland. The growers have consistently supported the drumMUSTER program and in doing so have shown a great respect for the environment. The utilisation of one of the largest agricultural stewardship and recycling programs in Australia proves farmers want to not only support but champion sustainable farm management practices.
Over 214 tonnes of plastic and steel has been recycled in the Hinchinbrook Shire through the program. This equates to 4,600 cubic metres of waste being saved from entering landfill, saving an enormous amount of money for the local ratepayer. Placing the drums end to end would see them in a line all the way from Ingham to Euramo!
“Growers in the Herbert Valley should be very proud of their commitment to the environment and in turn the success of the drumMUSTER program. I have seen them leading the way in Far North Queensland for many years now” said Colin Hoey, drumMUSTER Regional Consultant for Queensland.
General Manager of Agsafe, Dominique Doyle said of the milestone “Well done to the community of Herbert Valley! Their support of the Hinchinbrook Shire drumMUSTER collections is crucial to reaching over 200,000 drums. This community engagement with Councils is key to the success of collections, and this is just another tick for North Qld farmers operating sustainable farming practices”.
Hinchinbrook Mayor Ramon Jayo was mindful of giving credit where credit is due, “I am pleased that our Herbert growers are being recognised for their commitment to the environment through their recycling efforts of chemical containers.
“Farmers in general are regularly held out to be environmental vandals by various elements ignorant of the true facts and facts such as these assist in bringing out the truth.”