With National Recycling Week upon us there is still one more weekend left to sell your unwanted goods or pick up a basement bargain across the region.
The Garage Sale Trail is happening again on 16-17 November, offering healthy profits for savvy sellers and tidy savings for thrifty shoppers.
Our Local Government Area (LGA) is now sitting atop the national leader board, with 263 sales registered over the two weekends. Some key stats for this year's participation include:
58,306 items up for sale
116,852 kilos of potential waste projected to be reused
100% of sellers have pledged not to illegally dump unsold goods
PMHC Waste Project officer, Corrine de Mestre, said it was an extraordinary effort to see our LGA become the number one area for registered stalls across the country.
"I am absolutely thrilled to see the support that our region has thrown behind this year's Garage Sale Trail, and the incredible effort we've collectively gone to recognise the importance or reusing, rehoming and recycling goods," she said.
"The first weekend of Garage Sale Trail has helped people connect and keep their unwanted goods out of landfill, and I am hopeful that we can keep the momentum running into this weekend as well. What an amazing effort."
Data collected from the 2023 event revealed that those holding a sale on the trail made an average $457 profit, proving pre-loved items are both planet and pocket friendly.
"There really will be something for everyone; designer fashion, mid-century furniture, cookware, vinyl, kids' stuff, tools and more," Ms de Mestre said.
The Garage Sale Trail event is free for residents thanks to the support of the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) and PMHC. It has a serious mission to reduce the volume of usable items ending up in landfill and illegally dumped sites across the state.
NSW EPA Executive Director Programs and Innovation, Alexandra Geddes, said "Garage Sale Trail supports the NSW Government's target to reduce and deter illegal dumping."
"Our recent audit found that 43% of items dumped on the kerbside could have either been reused, repaired or recycled.
By taking part in this event, you are embracing our transition to a circular economy and helping reduce the amount of waste ending up in landfill. Opting for pre-loved items is a great way to save money and protect our environment for future generations."
Find a sale and hit the trail here: https://www.garagesaletrail.com.au/port-macquarie-hastings
