1st Grovedale Scout Group’s metal collection scheme under threat 1st Grovedale Scout Group’s metal collection scheme under threat

The 1st Grovedale Scout Group’s popular scrap metal collection scheme is under threat amid claims the council will put conditions on the group’s lease preventing the scheme’s operation.

The 1st Grovedale Scouts group collects around 80 tonnes of scrap metal and e-waste per year. Picture: Alan Barber

Grovedale Scouts have been collecting and recycling metal outside their Perrett St hall for more than eight years, but now the popular scheme is under threat.

The 1st Grovedale Scout Group, which leased its hall from the City of Greater Geelong, was told by the council the scrap collection bin was “unsightly” and must be moved.

In a letter to Scouts Victoria, a City of Greater Geelong officer said the council would “not permit the collection of whitegoods and metal junk on the site or the storage of a skip bin”.

“We have previously requested that this be cleaned up. It is an unsightly and inappropriate use of public land,” a letter read.

“Please arrange for all this to be cleared as soon as possible.”

Colin Sharp, the group’s scrap bin co-ordinator, said the contingent would be forced to stop operating the scheme.

He said the group had conducted the scheme for more than eight years and collected about 80 tonnes of scrap metal and e-waste annually.

He said the group also sorted waste and re-purposed what it could, donating about $20,000 worth of products to more than 16 charities and community organisations across Geelong.

The 2st Grovedale Scouts group may have to stop their scrap metal collection scheme. Picture: Alan Barber

He said the scheme was the group’s major fundraiser and helped support its 102 members.

He also said the group sold e-waste and metal that could not be repurposed, raising about $9000 annually.

“It’s not about that, it’s about the bigger picture,” Mr Sharp said.

“People are very supportive of what we’re trying to achieve.”

Mr Sharp said the bin was accessible 24/7 and many tradespeople and members of the community travelled from around the region to drop off scrap metal and e-waste.

“The bin is known throughout the Geelong region,” Mr Sharp said.

“I like to call it a community bin.”

Mr Sharp also claimed the council had failed to adequately consult with the group about its needs and had not offered any solutions.

City of Greater Geelong chief executive officer Ali Wastie said: ‘Council is in ongoing discussions with the Scouts and will be looking to balance what is in the best interests of the Scouts and the broader community”.

Originally published as 1st Grovedale Scout Group’s metal collection scheme under threat 1st Grovedale Scout Group’s metal collection scheme under threat