While common household recyclables are collected kerbside each fortnight, many other  recyclable items were only collected once a year by Bathurst Regional Council.

But, thanks to a $37,500 grant from the NSW Government, a permanent recycling centre opened at Bathurst Waste Management Centre yesterday.

The centre will accept gas bottles, fire extinguishers, paint, fluorescent globes and tubes, car and household batteries, motor oils, other oils and smoke detectors. Open seven days a week, mayor Gary Rush said he expects Bathurstians to embrace the new centre.

“As ratepayers we haven’t really known what to do with this type of waste,” he said. “Not only does it dispose of the waste, but it allows it to be recycled. To have a facility like this is not to be understated.”

Council’s water and waste manager Russell Deans said despite the opening of the centre, the annual Household Chemical Clean Out will continue to operate.

Member for Bathurst Paul Toole assisted with the official opening and said the new facility was a great asset for Bathurst.

“This community recycling centre will ensure that these wastes are kept out of landfill where they may harm the environment and will help to minimise waste and boost recycling,” he said.

“I congratulate Bathurst Regional Council  on achieving this grant and encourage all residents to take advantage of this fantastic free service.”

The centre is part of the NSW Government’s $467 million commitment to food and waste programs over the next five years.

NSW Environment Protection Authority project officer Kent Gillman was there for the official opening and said the Bathurst centre was one of 86 planned across the state.