Not-for-profit remote store operator Community Enterprise Queensland (CEQ) is celebrating a major environmental milestone after successfully installing purpose-built recycling containers in 20 of its stores across Cape York and the Torres Strait.
The innovative Resource Recovery Project, which initially targeted 14 sites, is now fully operational at all 20 planned locations in the region.
The final containers have now been allocated and placed on-site, marking a major milestone in addressing waste management challenges in remote First Nations communities.
The initiative actively diverts major store waste streams – specifically cardboard and clear plastic pallet wrap – away from limited local landfills, protecting the fragile environments of northern Australia.
Recycling activities have officially commenced at all 20 participating CEQ stores: Nurupai, Warraber, Tamwoy, Iama, Bamaga, Mer, Lockhart River, Mabuiag, Wug, Boigu, Napranum, Arkai, Saibai, Masig, Poruma, Erub, Kirirri, Ugar, Wujal Wujal, and Mapoon.
This milestone was made possible through the Regional and Remote Recycling Modernisation Fund (RRRMF), a joint initiative between the Australian and Queensland Governments designed to increase resource recovery and recycling participation in remote regions.
CEQ works in close collaboration with key logistics and environmental partners to ensure the project’s ongoing viability.
Sea Swift provides crucial transport infrastructure, shipping the consolidated recyclable materials from remote communities to Cairns, and North Queensland Recycling Agents (NQRA) then takes delivery of the waste streams in Cairns, processing the cardboard and plastic wrap into usable products.
Recycling in progress at CEQ’s Boigu store.
CEQ Chief Operating Officer Fred Gela said reaching the 20-store target represents a significant step forward in the organisation’s long-term commitment to sustainable practices.
“Tying in with our vision of Caring, every day, always, we see it as our commitment to the communities we service and to care for country,” Mr Gela said.
“Through collaboration, we have been able to implement a practical solution that addresses waste management challenges in remote communities
“The support from the Australian and Queensland Governments has been instrumental in bringing this project to life.
“Working with the Queensland Government to manage this project has also enabled the project to respond to the challenges that these types of projects can face.
“We are also appreciative of Sea Swift’s and NQRA’s commitment to this initiative.
“Together, we are making a tangible difference in preserving the environment for future generations.”
With all 20 purpose-built containers now operational on-site, CEQ continues to actively engage with local store teams and key stakeholders to refine, sustain, and expand these vital recycling initiatives.
“We are proud to lead this initiative and look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on the environment and the communities we serve,” added Mr Gela.
CEQ is a not-for-profit organisation responsible for providing goods and essential services to the Torres Strait, Cape York Peninsula and in Doomadgee and on Palm Island through its 31 stores.
CEQ manages the Islanders Board of Industry and Service (IBIS) and Aboriginal Business, Industry and Service (ABIS) stores, as well as other stores including Col Jones and Community Home and Hardware, and Mona’s Bazaar and Mitre 10 on Waibene.
