Community Enterprise Queensland (CEQ) is celebrating a major environmental milestone after successfully installing purpose-built recycling containers in 20 of its stores across Cape York and the Torres Strait.

The Resource Recovery Project, which initially targeted 14 sites, is now fully operational at all 20 planned locations in the region: Nurupai, Warraber, Tamwoy, Iama, Bamaga, Mer, Lockhart River, Mabuiag, Wug, Boigu, Napranum, Arkai, Saibai, Masig, Poruma, Erub, Kirirri, Ugar, Wujal Wujal, and Mapoon.

The initiative actively diverts major store waste streams – specifically cardboard and clear plastic pallet wrap – away from limited local landfills, protecting the fragile environments of northern Australia.

This milestone was made possible through the Regional and Remote Recycling Modernisation Fund, a joint initiative between the Australian and Queensland governments designed to increase resource recovery and recycling participation in remote regions.

CEQ says it’s working in close collaboration with key logistics and environmental partners to ensure the project’s ongoing viability.

Sea Swift provides transport infrastructure, shipping the consolidated recyclable materials from remote communities to Cairns, and North Queensland Recycling Agents (NQRA) then takes delivery of the waste streams in Cairns, processing the cardboard and plastic wrap into usable products.

CEQ Chief Operating Officer Fred Gela says reaching the 20-store target represents a significant step forward in the organisation’s long-term commitment to sustainable practices.

“Tying in with our vision of ‘Caring, every day, always’, we see it as our commitment to the communities we service and to care for country,” he says.

“Through collaboration, we have been able to implement a practical solution that addresses waste management challenges in remote communities.

“The support from the Australian and Queensland governments has been instrumental in bringing this project to life. Working with the Queensland government to manage this project has also enabled the project to respond to the challenges that these types of projects can face.

“We’re also appreciative of Sea Swift’s and NQRA’s commitment to this initiative. Together, we’re making a tangible difference in preserving the environment for future generations.”