The Bin Saga and Why We Keep Going

If I'm honest, I'm getting a little tired of writing about rubbish bins.

When this started, I assumed it would be a simple conversation. A question would be asked, an answer provided, and we'd all move on.

Instead, here we are several articles, emails and discussions later.

Last week I contacted Council (again) after learning bins had been reinstated at the Victoria Point jetty and asked a simple question:

When will bins be returned to the Coochiemudlo Island jetty?

The response explained why bins were removed from ferry terminals and jetties across the city, citing concerns about rubbish entering the marine environment. It also explained why Victoria Point is now an exception.

What it didn't explain was whether bins are coming back to Coochie.

So the question remains unanswered.

At this point, I'm less outraged than I am fascinated by the endurance event this has become.

Community advocacy is rarely exciting. The first email feels productive. The tenth feels like you're standing in the rain pressing the same doorbell and wondering if anyone is home.

While many of the improvements we enjoy on Coochie didn't happen because someone asked once, they happened because people cared enough to keep asking.

So if you'd like to help keep this issue on the radar, consider:

• Contacting your local councillor and asking what the long-term plan is for waste management at the jetty.  Our local councillor is Lance Hewlett: lance.hewlett@redland.qld.gov.au

• Lodging a customer request with Council seeking clarification on whether bins will return. Lodge a complaint here. Email your complaint here: rcc@redland.qld.gov.au

• Raising the issue respectfully at community meetings and consultation sessions.

• Sharing practical solutions and constructive ideas.

The goal isn't to be difficult. The goal is simply to get an answer and a workable outcome.

As for the bins, the saga continues.

Council says it will continue monitoring the situation.

We'll continue asking questions.

And if the day comes that bins return to the Coochiemudlo Island jetty, I promise I'll write the shortest article in the history of Coochie Community Online.

P.S. My AI assistant reviewed the latest correspondence and observed:

"The question appears to remain uncollected, much like the rubbish."

I may have created a monster. 🤖🗑️😂