Take a Trash to Treasure Tour

Published 5:04am 29 August 2025

Words by Nick Crockford

Residents are being offered a rare chance to see the journey “beyond the bin” for City of Moreton Bay’s garbage.

The annual Trash to Treasure Tour of the Dakabin Waste Facility is on Friday, September 5, from 1-2.30pm to show the work Council is doing to reduce landfill.

Coaches will take “tour-ists” through the facility to show what happens to household waste, how it is reimagined as a resource and how we can make a more sustainable future.

The tour includes:

Capturing harmful emissions: In the past year, how landfill gas-to-energy plants have trapped more than 115 million cubic metres of biogas before it reached the atmosphere – generating enough renewable energy to power 7000 homes.
Diverting organics from landfill: Since December 2024, over 20,000 tonnes of garden waste has been repurposed into compost, preventing methane emissions and improving soil health. Garden waste is also turned into mulch which is often available to residents for free on Saturdays.
Tip shops: Through Council’s Treasure Markets, items destined for landfill are repaired and resold for a bargain price, keeping everyday items in circulation and reducing demand for new production.

“The Trash to Treasure Tour highlights the real impact of everyday choices and incredible work Council teams do behind the scenes to reduce landfill,” Mayor Peter Flannery said.

“What started back in 2009 has grown into a much-anticipated annual tour, giving locals a unique chance to see how Council recovers, recycles, and responsibly manages waste.”

Cr Jodie Shipway (Div 4) says the event is on a pupil-free day to make it easier for families explore the facility together.

“You might be surprised to discover just how much work goes into managing waste after it leaves the kerb or is dropped off at a waste facility,” Cr Shipway said.

To book a Tour place click here

Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Attendees must arrive by 12.45pm and arrange the installation of booster seats for children who require them.