Our Stories
CASE STUDY
Transforming Waste Management
When Resource Recovery Australia (RRA) took on operations at the Lakes Creek Road Waste Management Facility in Rockhampton, our goal was clear. We set out to support Rockhampton Regional Council’s Resource Recovery Strategy, which targets 90% waste diversion by 2040. From day one, we’ve worked to improve environmental outcomes, strengthen community engagement and create meaningful jobs for local people.
We diverted 62 tonnes in the first six weeks. By the end of FY24, that number had grown to 3,038 tonnes. By FY25, the total reached 4,266.57 tonnes diverted from landfill. In FY25 alone, more than 25,000 customers visited the shop, despite it being open only three days a week. We also donated 7,521 kilograms of goods to local charities, showing the combined social and environmental value of our work.
Kahli (Site Manager) and Kerry-Ann (Depot Hand)
Hitting the Ground Running
RRA recruited a brand new local workforce and provided training in best-practice waste diversion, safety and customer service across the entire facility.
Reimagining the Tip Shop
The former tip shop was transformed into the Reviva Ibis Reuse Shop, a welcoming and well-organised retail space that celebrates reuse. With wide aisles, clear signage and styled merchandise zones, the shop now attracts thousands of customers every year. Outdoor areas were redesigned to better display salvaged building materials, garden gear and more.
Engaging the Community at Every Step
At the Community Recycling Centre, residents are encouraged to sort and donate before heading to the weighbridge. Our frontline team chats with visitors about reuse, while new signage, co-designed with Council, helps people find their way around the site.
At the Transfer Station, a shift in culture has empowered the team to educate the public and recover more items for reuse and recycling. This is the last stop before landfill, and a valuable opportunity to make a difference.
These efforts are supported by a strong local Facebook community. The Reviva Ibis Rockhampton Facebook page generated 1.5 million impressions last financial year, with a 12% engagement rate that continues to drive visibility, sales, education and support for the circular economy.
#WASTE2WAGES in Action
In FY25, 93% of our Rockhampton team had faced barriers to employment before joining RRA. We delivered 221 training opportunities to support their growth. These included forklift and loader licensing, test and tag, first aid, asbestos awareness, and white card certification. We’re proud to invest in people and build local skills in the waste industry.
New Business
In 2024, RRA took part in a fair and equal tender process to manage the Gracemere Waste Management Facility. We were successful, and now operate a second Reviva Reuse Shop, along with the CRC, Transfer Station and Gatehouse.
Broadening the Reach
Rockhampton Regional Council has established an Upcycle Village at the Lakes Creek Road Waste Management Facility. As part of this initiative, RRA has launched The Tinkerage. This creative workshop space gives community members the chance to learn practical skills in repair, reuse and upcycling through hands-on workshops. By rescuing items from the waste management facility and giving them a second life, The Tinkerage supports greater diversion and helps Council meet its waste goals.
A Trusted, Certified Partner
RRA is proud to hold ISO certification for Environmental (ISO 14001), Quality (ISO 9001) and Occupational Health and Safety (ISO 45001) Management Systems. We continue to refine our systems to meet the changing needs of our partners and deliver safe, reliable and forward-thinking waste services.
Ready to Transform Your Site? RRA is working with councils across Australia to meet ambitious waste diversion targets while building stronger communities. If you’re looking to increase reuse, reduce landfill and deliver meaningful local impact, get in touch with us today.
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