By DANIELLE GALVIN
THE FAMILY-owned Cardinia Waste and Recyclers transfer station is sick of being “dumped on” by residents complaining that the tip fees are too high.
Following a recent report in the News on 8 August and comments on the Pakenham-Gazette Facebook page, the owners of the Pakenham business have hit back at claims that they are too expensive.
Owner Michael Atkins said it appeared there was some misinformation and confusion in the community about the transfer station.
“Cardinia Waste and Recyclers is a family owned and run business since 2006,” he said.
“It is not and has never been run by the Cardinia Shire Council.
“We have always strived to bring our customers the best service with the lowest possible prices.
“We are constantly battling against the government increases on landfill, levies and taxes and have had no choice but to pass these added costs to the consumers as we cannot absorb them.”
Mr Atkins said the business had felt the pressure like other small businesses in recent times.
“We along with every other small business have also incurred massive running cost increases including wages, superannuation, electricity, water, fuel and the list goes on,” he said.
“We are also a normal local family and are well aware of the living costs of today.
“The only time we have ever increased the prices is to cover the increased costs to our business, not for profit.”
Referencing the council’s recent crackdown on illegal dumping in the shire, Mr Atkins said roadside dumping continued to be a big problem. He said often the rubbish is white goods and metal items which are accepted free of charge.
“Therefore, the illegal dumping is not due to cost but more so disrespect for the environment and our community,” he said.
In response to recent claims on social media, Mr Atkins said the business appreciates constructive criticism, but are disappointed at the faceless and inaccurate commentary on Facebook.
He said the transfer station was not a tip and that they were less expensive than other similar businesses.
“As for the comments regarding the sale of recyclable goods, yes that is a fact,” Mr Atkins said.
“The sale and donation of second hand items is what recycling is about and benefits the environment and community, for example the donation of walking frames to the needy.
“It also reduces the amount of waste going into landfill thus reducing damage to our planet.
“The money from the so-called ‘garage sale’ enables us as a local business to keep our costs low and support and donate to local causes, charities, schools, kindergartens and clubs.”
Mr Atkins thanked the support from local businesses over the years.
“We thank you for your loyalty and understanding over the years and we will continue to make dumping your rubbish as easy and cost effective as possible,” he said.
