The City
of Greater Geelong is celebrating the success of its locally produced compost,
which is enriching gardens and green spaces across the region – all thanks to
the community’s green bin efforts.
Made
from garden organics collected in green bins and scarified grass from local
sports ovals, the City’s compost is a shining example of the circular economy
in action.
The
nutrient-rich compost is being used in parks across Greater Geelong, not only
enhancing soil health but also improving water retention, effectively
drought-proofing these green spaces.
The
Geelong West Community Garden has embraced the compost, resulting in vibrant
plants and an abundance of crops.
Mayor
Stretch Kontelj OAM
The compost program is a success story that reflects
the City’s commitment to sustainability and innovation.
We’re
leading the way with this innovative approach as one of only a few councils in Australia that
process our garden waste locally. Something we’re very proud of.
This
compost is more than just great for veggie gardens — it’s also being used in
parks and reserves, helping to build healthy urban landscapes across Greater
Geelong.
By
transforming green bin waste into premium compost, we’re cutting landfill,
lowering emissions, and delivering real value back to our community and
environment.
The
compost is processed at the City’s Anakie organics facility, helping to reduce
transport emissions and maintain quality control.
Around
40,000 tonnes of garden waste are diverted from landfill each year,
significantly reducing methane emissions and supporting the Victorian
Government’s target to halve organic waste to landfill by 2030.
Councillor
Elise Wilkinson, Chair of the Environment and Circular Economy portfolio
By
2035, our aim is for the Geelong region to reach net zero carbon emissions —
and programs like this are helping us get there.
Small
everyday choices, like using your green bin properly, can lead to big wins for
the environment.
The
compost is also being used in vegetable gardens at the Geelong Botanic Gardens,
where some of the produce is donated to Geelong Foodshare, further extending
the community benefit.
Residents
can purchase the Geelong-made compost at local garden centres including Lara
Garden Supplies, Wallington WRG, and South Point Garden Supplies.
Read more
information on the City’s garden organics program and how to use your green bin
correctly.