The challenge
Proterra Group has held the operation and management contract for the Longreach Waste Facility since May 2015. When we took over, the site needed a major clean-up. We surveyed the facility, organised the removal of scrap metal, redistributed material across the site and separated the landfill and recycling areas.
Since then, we have developed site-specific management and closure plans to help Council meet its licence requirements.
Our ongoing duties include, but are not limited to:
- Compacting and covering waste daily at the tip face
- Keeping the facility clean and sanitary, including office facilities and site litter control
- Opening and closing the facility at the designated times
- Making sure the public disposes of waste in the appropriate area and that waste streams stay free from contamination
- Balancing friendly customer service for residents with clear direction on their responsibilities
- Meeting the conditions of Council’s Environmental Authority under the Environmental Protection Act 1994
Our solution
We started by getting the basics right. A thorough clean-up and a clearly organised site gave us a solid foundation, and from there we put structure around the day-to-day operation. Our site team is based in the community, runs the facility to a consistent daily routine and keeps customers informed about what goes where. Behind them, our management and environmental team prepared the site-specific management and closure plans that keep Council on track with its licence requirements.
The result is a facility that is run safely, kept clean and managed with the long-term future of the site in mind.
The benefit
This contract delivers real value to the Longreach community. We currently employ 2.2 full-time equivalent personnel, injecting $112,000 in wages into the region during the 2021/22 financial year alone. That money goes into the hands of local grocery stores, butchers, cafes, pubs and many other businesses.
Supporting local business is central to how we work. During 2021/22, we spent approximately $35,500 with Longreach suppliers, because we believe engaging local businesses is an important part of encouraging the growth of regional communities.
We also take pride in giving back. Whether it’s the Longreach Junior Rugby League Carnival or the Longreach Show, we invest in the groups and events that make the region what it is. Our recent contributions include:
- Longreach Rodeo Association: sponsorship of the Longreach Rodeo
- Longreach Show Society: Silver General Sponsorship
- Longreach State High School: Awards Night and STEM Award sponsorship
The result
After more than nine years of operation, Council has a well-run, compliant waste facility and a dependable long-term partner. The site has gone from needing a major clean-up to operating under clear management and closure plans, with daily operations that meet the conditions of Council’s Environmental Authority.
At the same time, the contract keeps wages, local spending and sponsorship dollars circulating in the Longreach community.
