Community Concerns Raised Over Trial Waste Facility Hours in the Burdekin

By Chelsea Ravizza

Community discussion has emerged following the introduction of trial operating hours at several Burdekin Shire waste facilities, with some residents voicing concerns on social media about access during the region’s ongoing disaster season.

Burdekin Shire Council confirmed in late November 2025 that a number of local waste facilities would operate under adjusted hours from Monday, 1 December, as part of a four-month trial scheduled to conclude in March. Council’s Waste Services team is monitoring the trial, with residents encouraged to provide feedback via an online form.

Under the trial, Kirknie Landfill is open Monday to Friday from 8am to 1pm and Saturdays from 8am to 12pm. The Ayr Transfer Station operates seven days a week from 8am to 4pm, closing for lunch between 12pm and 1pm. The Home Hill Transfer Station is open six days a week from 8am to 4pm, closes for lunch between 1pm and 2pm, and remains closed on Wednesdays.

Some residents have raised concerns that the adjusted hours could limit their ability to clean up yards and properties following recent severe weather, with fears also expressed about the potential for increased illegal dumping.

In response, Council said feedback received to date had been mixed, noting that positive comments had also been made, particularly around seven-day access at the Ayr Transfer Station and the importance of staff workplace health and safety.

“Effective waste management is becoming increasingly important for both Council and the community, particularly as Queensland moves toward reduced landfill and increased recycling,” a Burdekin Shire Council spokesperson said.

“Council has a responsibility to ensure waste facilities operate safely, legally and within sustainable financial limits, while balancing community access, environmental obligations and affordability. Maintaining reliable services is a priority, and during the recent cyclone threat all waste facilities remained open to ensure residents continued to have access to essential waste services.”

Council said the trial hours were introduced following community requests for earlier opening times at the Ayr and Home Hill facilities, particularly during hotter months for residents who start work early. The changes also allow staff to take uninterrupted and legally compliant lunch breaks, with most waste facilities staffed by a single operator.

A review of 12 months of operational data showed customer numbers at Kirknie Landfill dropped significantly after 1pm, with the earlier closure allowing time for essential site maintenance.

Council confirmed there had been no increase in illegal dumping since the trial began, noting activity is monitored by a dedicated Illegal Dumping Officer.

“Council remains committed to maintaining clean public spaces and will continue to monitor, investigate and respond to illegal dumping to protect our environment and uphold community expectations,” the spokesperson said.

A comprehensive report will be prepared at the conclusion of the trial, with ongoing community feedback set to inform any future decisions regarding waste facility operations.

‍

Burdekin Shire Council have addressed the community's concerns regarding waste facility trail hours, assuring their commitment to maintaining a clean region. Photo source: Burdekin Shire Council

‍