Waste Education Events

Cairns Regional Council's Waste Education Program offers many free events that residents can take part in to learn how to reduce, reuse and recycle waste better. Council also offers ongoing free Kindy, School & Community Group tours & presentation events which interested participants can register their interest for.

For a full list of upcoming Council events please visit Council's Upcoming Events Page.

Further Information about Waste Education Specific Events:

The 2026 Trash to Treasure was held on Saturday 8 of August.

Trash to Treasure is Cairns Regional Council's annual celebration of waste reduction and resource recovery. Bringing together the local community, businesses and schools, the event showcases creative and practical ways to give unwanted items a second life and reduce the quantity of waste heading into landfill.

Visitors can enjoy a vibrant day of live entertainment, hands-on workshops, market stalls, food vendors, community activities and unique Buy Back Shop bargains. From upcycling demonstrations and repair tips to inspiring displays from local schools and early learning centres as part of the Reuse, Rethink, Repurpose Competition, Trash to Treasure highlights how small actions can make a big difference in creating a more circular and sustainable future.

Wheter you're looking for inspiration, practical waste reduction ideas, family-friendly activities, or a hidden treasure to take home, there's something for everyone at Trash to Treasure!