Plastics ban set to clean up Victoria Park events

SINGLE use plastics could be banned at all Town of Victoria Park events, including markets, by the end of the year.

The council has endorsed a ban on polystyrene, styrofoam and plastic cups, plates, straws, cutlery, water bottles, food containers and other such items.

It will now investigate the timing and approach for introducing the change and allowing for a phasing out of existing supplies by December, and whether the ban should extend to all events the council supports.

Councillors ultimately supported Cr Karen Vernon’s suggestion at last week’s meeting, but found a real sticking point in the potential ramifications of prescribing the ban to “all events supported by council.”

Cr Brian Oliver was concerned that clause could test the viability of grassroots events such as school fetes and affect the council’s ability to donate to community groups.

“Too much red tape could hinder our ability to support the community,” he said.

In the end the council voted to remove the clause relating to all events supported by council.

The ban would apply to all council run events, including the annual Summer Street Party, to all market stalls held on council land, and in all council buildings except those with lease and licence agreements.

Cr Vernon said she accepted there would be costs and consequences but banning plastic was one of the most important steps the council could take as civic leaders.