New shop to reduce waste and create opportunities

A new partnership between the City of Busselton and Workpower will see the not-for-profit organisation take over the management and operation of a new Reuse Shop at the Busselton Waste Transfer Station on Rendezvous Road.

Supported by the State Government through a grant of $150,000 from the Waste Authority of Western Australia, the reuse shop opened to the public this week, with a range of items in a great condition ready to be sold at affordable prices.

Not only does reselling these too-good-to-be-thrown-out items mean that they won’t end up in landfill, the shop supports Workpower, which provides opportunities for people with disability.

City of Busselton Mayor Phill Cronin said the partnership would create ongoing meaningful employment opportunities with a diversity of job roles, and will encourage positive interactions with the community.

“This is a wonderful initiative that offers genuine local employment opportunities and retail with a difference, all while promoting the sustainable practice of diverting waste from landfill,” he said.

“Workpower provide a proven model, with reuse shops [already operating in] Balcatta, Tamala Park and Kalamunda.

“Whether you are an artist, upcycler, looking to kit your home out or simply after a bargain, the reuse shop is a treasure trove of items looking for a new home.”

Workpower CEO, Lee Broomhall said they were delighted to partner with the City on the new shop.

“This is our fourth reuse shop and the first located outside the metropolitan area, marking an exciting milestone for Workpower.

“Reuse shops play an important role in effective waste management, diverting tonnes of reusable items from landfill and giving them a second life or purpose.

“The skills and experience gained through working at our reuse shops provide people with disability a strong foundation in retail and waste management.

“This also adds to the diverse range of services that the Workpower Busselton team provides to local businesses and industries.”

Over the coming months City officers and the Workpower team will commence assessing and selling lightly used household items that have a saleable value.

While waste disposal fees will still apply to any goods presented at the Busselton Waste Transfer Station, all proceeds from the sale of the goods will be used to offset costs, including the ongoing employment of Workpower staff, while reducing landfill.

The City of Busselton Reuse Shop will be open Thursday to Friday from 9.00am to 3.00pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 10.00am to 2.00pm.

For more info, visit www.busselton.wa.gov.au