Local business champions a plastic free future

Published on 24 November 2021

LR Jim Ellrott and Hannah White, Jo Stoyel, Cr Kirkland and Cr Latcham.JPG

Riverston Tea Rooms have completed their switch from single use plastics to sustainable options with the help of Plastic Free CQ, a program supported by Rockhampton Regional Council.

Councillor for Waste and Recycling Shane Latcham said this was a great achievement and one that other businesses could be inspired to follow in their footsteps.

“I really want to congratulate Riverston Tea Rooms for not only taking the first step by signing up for this program, but to progressing to champion status by completely eliminating single use plastics,” Cr Latcham said.

“When State Government legislation came into effect 1 September banning a number single use plastics, it was really important that businesses were provided with support to transition to more environmentally friendly alternatives.

“That’s why we were thrilled to support the Plastic Free CQ program.”

Plastic Free CQ Coordinator Jo Stoyel said Plastic Free CQ are absolutely elated to announce the first Rockhampton Plastic Free CQ Champion, Riverston Tea Rooms.

“The Riverston Tea Rooms team have worked hard to eliminate the need for single-use water bottles and other problematic single-use take away packaging,” Ms Stoyel said.

“They have engaged in a swap and go coffee cup system such as Green Caffeen and have opted for a sipper lid for cold drinks, made from a plant-based material rather than hardcore plastic – negating the need for a straw.

“Finding options that suit the needs of the business, but aren't over-packaged, has been a process for the team, but they have met the challenge head on and have reached an outcome that works for the business and their customers.

“The message we want to get out there is clear - you don't need plastic to sell food, package food or transport food - alternatives are available!”

Water and Environmental Sustainability Councillor Donna Kirkland said that with so many sustainable alternatives available, reducing single use plastics is becoming easier.

“Through our Living Sustainably program, we have been sharing hints and tips to help individuals and households make the switch to more sustainable options,” Cr Kirkland said.

“Plastic Free CQ is a fantastic program full of information to help local food businesses, and with the ban now well and truly in place, I would urge those business owners who are still finding it hard to make the switch, to reach out and make the most of the program.”

Riverston Tea Rooms Manager Hannah White said making the switch is easy once you know the right products.

“Plastic Free CQ have been really helpful in sourcing the right products to suit the needs of our business,” Ms White said.

“Early on, when we thought we were using some products that were plastic free, we actually found out that there are much better products on the market.

“I would absolutely encourage other business owners who are struggling to eliminate single use plastics to contact Plastic Free CQ.”

 Businesses in the Rockhampton Region can join Plastic Free CQ by heading to www.plasticfreecq.org.

For more information and resources on reducing single use plastics visit: https://www.rockhamptonregion.qld.gov.au/CommunityEvents/Environmental-Sustainability/Living-Sustainably/Reducing-single-use-plastic

This initiative is supported as part of Council’s broader Waste Strategy. To find out more about Council’s strategy to build a circular economy and achieve zero waste by 2050, download the Rockhampton Regional Waste and Recycling Strategy available at www.rrc.qld.gov.au/rrwr