RECYCLING Centre Balcatta has been recognised for promoting inclusion.
The City of Stirling facility won the disability and inclusion category at the National Awards for Local Government for its tip shop, which is run by social enterprise Workpower and employs people with disabilities.
Stirling MHR Michael Keenan said the operating model launched in 2016 improved customer service and amenities, benefited employees and maximised recycling.
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READ NOW“A total revamp of the recycling shop area – in partnership with local charity Workpower – transformed it into a safe facility capable of accommodating employees and customers with a disability,” he said.
“The existing main shed was completely gutted to create a display area for large items, a serving/payment counter, a small coffee shop and wheelchair access to an outdoor area encompassing a second shed.
“Staff members with varying degrees of disabilities were then selected and trained to operate the counter, coffee shop, sales areas and heavy machinery such as a loader and forklift truck.”
Stirling Mayor Mark Irwin said the facility also maximised the diversion of waste from landfill.
“The tip shop averages 7000 shoppers and receives approximately 1850 donations of household items each month,” he said.
“During the 2016-17 financial year the tip shop alone diverted 500 tonnes of waste from landfill, while the recycling centre diverted 1500 tonnes of steel and 750 tonnes of cardboard in the same period.”
Stirling was one of 10 councils recognised at the annual awards, with the City of Armadale the only other WA winner, and will vie for the overall award on June 19.
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