Murchison residents call for immediate reopening of Resource Recovery Centre

With no convenient waste disposal options, many fear the closure could become permanent. Meanwhile, illegal dumping of chemicals and rubbish is reportedly already affecting nearby bushland, prompting residents to seek answers.

Local resident Paul Shaddix contacted Greater Shepparton City Council about the closure, which responded via email, stating it is currently working through staff shortage issues with the endeavour to re-open at earliest opportunity following recruitment.

“All we’re asking for is eight hours a week, and the fact that they can’t send anyone from another centre to help open it isn’t good enough,” Mr Shaddix said.

Many residents of all ages came forward to voice their concerns, and the public sentiment was consistent.

They expressed that the situation was unacceptable, noting that the surrounding bushland was being negatively impacted.

They also highlighted that not everyone had the means or affordability to travel to other areas for waste disposal.

Finally, there was a strong demand for the council to address these issues with transparency.

John Albury, who has lived in Murchison for 18 years, said he had never seen anything like this during his time in the town.

“I’ve been around since before this tip even existed,” he said.

“You wait; in a month’s time, there will be rubbish everywhere. I live on 40 acres just down the road, and it's already scattered with rubbish — chemicals, batteries, paint, furniture — everywhere I look.

“We need a tip badly. Why can’t they get someone from another centre to help staff this one while they find a replacement?”

On September 5, council was emailed for an update on the situation.

The inquiry included questions about the reopening date, the employment process and a detailed description of the feedback The News has been receiving from Murchison residents.

Four days later, council’s response was a two-sentence quote from director of infrastructure Gary Randhawa.

“The Resource Recovery Department is currently progressing through the recruitment process,” Mr Randhawa said.

“As the recruitment process is open, we are unable to confirm a re-opening date at this point.”

As frustration mounts and the Murchison community’s patience wears thin, residents are demanding immediate action from council.

Residents say the ongoing lack of transparency and response only heightens concerns and exacerbates the potential for environmental damage.

Bill Woodward, reflecting on the gathering at the centre on Monday evening, noted that residents left with deepening doubts but still a glimmer of hope for answers.

He emphasised that council must address this crisis urgently to prevent further deterioration and irreparable damage to public trust.

"Without prompt action, the council risks escalating the environmental damage and further alienating the community it serves,” Mr Woodward said.

“The time for vague assurances has passed; residents are calling for decisive measures to restore this critical service immediately."