New life sought for old sports gear

A NEW recycling program being trialled in the City of Greater Bendigo is aiming to prevent old sporting equipment going into landfill.

Run by Game On Recycling, the scheme is open to residents as well as sports clubs and schools.

Old and unwanted equipment can be dropped off at the Strathfieldsaye Transfer Station where it’ll be collated and sorted.

“Sporting equipment with life left in it, will be made available to the next user through the Strathfieldsaye Transfer Station and community partnerships,” said Chris Mitchell, municipal acting resource recovery and education manager.

“[E]quipment that is no longer fit for purpose will be processed and separated into materials that can be used again in Australian manufacturing.

“The good news is that these materials have value and if collected and kept from landfill can potentially have an extended life with a new resident, before ultimately being recycled and becoming part of the circular economy as a new product.”

Types of sports gear currently accepted include inflatable balls, tennis racquets and balls, and ski equipment. Not accepted are shoes, boots and clothing.

“We are asking local residents, schools and clubs to help by cleaning out their storerooms, kid’s rooms and garages, and recycling their sports equipment that is no longer wanted,” Mr Mitchell said.

“This initiative is a game changer and who knows, one day that ball or racket you dropped at the transfer station might be the soft fall matting at your gym or a seat where you watch the Commonwealth Games from in 2026.”