Operation Lockatoo underway in Lorne

OPERATION Lockatoo is now underway in Lorne in an effort to prevent cockatoos from foraging in local bins and spreading litter.

Following successful trials, the Surf Coast Shire Council will fit lid mechanisms to residential bins across the town over the coming months.

All FOGO bins with lime green lids, recycling bins with yellow lids and landfill bins with bright red lids will be fitted with either a Litter Lock or Bin M8 device.

The Litter Lock was developed by Torquay innovator Colin Cox and supported by business partners Jayson Moran and Joe Mawson.

The Bin M8 device was developed by Macedon Ranges innovator Ronald Howard.

The mechanisms will help prevent cockatoos from opening the bin lids and foraging contents, but automatically disengage during collection.

Cr Gary Allen said the Shire was pleased to be rolling out the new lid mechanisms.

“We look forward to the successfully trialed mechanisms helping to deny cockies access to our residential bins.

“Special thanks to all residents who participated in the trial and provided valuable feedback, and to the mechanism designers who collaborated with the Council on their designs.

“We encourage residents to help ensure that the fitting rollout runs smoothly.

“People who have downloaded Council’s SCRRApp waste app will be able to receive notification when locks will be fitted in their area.”

Fittings will be completed on a street-by-street basis across the coming months.

Locals should put bins out as usual for Monday and Tuesday collections, excepting public holidays, but leave them out until 3.30pm on Tuesdays for the mechanism-fitting team.

They will not be able to choose which type of lid mechanism goes on their bins or make special appointments to have their mechanisms fitted.

More information on Operation Lockatoo can be found via surfcoast.vic.gov.au/binlock