Published on Thursday, 29 October 2026 at 3:10:31 PM
The Shire of Plantagenet’s commitment to sustainability, community partnership and resource recovery has been recognised and shortlisted for the 2026 Keep Australia Beautiful WA's Tidy Towns Sustainable Communities Awards.
Established in 1969, the awards celebrate regional and remote communities who champion sustainability and initiatives that protect and restore WA’s environment.
Shire President Len Handasyde said the Shire was pleased to be announced as a finalist for the Waste Management Award on 22 October.
“This award category recognises innovation in reducing and managing waste, and the judges look for the integration of resource recovery and re-use, and recycling,” he said.
“Run by the Mount Barker Lions Club WA volunteers following its initiation by Rotary Club of Mount Barker volunteers, the Tip Shop at the O’Neill Road Waste Management Facility has successfully created a circular economy that benefits the environment and the community.”
“We encourage residents to donate reusable items to the Tip Shop, which diverts them from landfill and reduces consumption, and 70 percent of the takings flow back to the clubs to fund community projects.”
“Established in June 2025, this model has become financially self-sustaining within 12 months of operation and is a credit to the 13 volunteers who have contributed 520 hours to the Tip Shop during its first year.”
“The Shire of Plantagenet is filled with dedicated volunteers who quietly give their time and energy to make our community such a great place to live, and never put their hand up for awards, but this is certainly a proud moment of recognition.”
Quick stats:
- 2,022 items sold — diverted from landfill and given a second life
• $27,889 in net sales generated through the Tip Shop
• 1,502 site transactions across the year (~125/month average)
• 13 volunteers, contributing 520 hours over the year (~40 hrs/volunteer)
• 70% of takings (~$19,522) returned to the Lions and Rotary Clubs to fund community projects
Winners will be announced at an awards ceremony at Optus Stadium on 27 November 2026.
Further information on the awards and finalists is available at Tidy Towns Sustainable Communities Awards.
Pictured (main): Volunteers Kathy Smith and Ross Mackenzie.
Below: Tip Shop volunteers and Shire of Plantagenet Manager Operations Cameron Large (third from left).
Back to All News