Help keep our community safe by responsibly disposing of syringes

North East Water (NEW) have reported a significant rise in syringes being improperly disposed of into the Wangaratta sewer system. A NEW spokesperson said this poses a serious risk to their staff and local plumbers. “Not only can syringes cause injury to our workers, but they block pipes and damage critical infrastructure,” they said. “Please dispose of 'sharps' responsibly, use designated sharps disposal containers and drop off at approved collection points. “Let’s work together to keep our community safe and our wastewater systems running smoothly.” The Rural City of Wangaratta is aware of recent concerns raised by NEW regarding improper syringe disposal in the community. RCoW director of community and infrastructure Marcus Goonan said sharps left in public areas pose serious risks to public health and safety, especially for children, pets, and maintenance workers, and can also impact the health of local waterways. “To keep our community safe, used syringes should never be placed in household bins, recycling, or flushed down toilets,” he said. Council operates a syringe return program that provides free sharps containers, which can be collected from customer service and returned either there or to the Wangaratta Transfer Station. Participating pharmacies and hospitals also offer safe disposal options. For more information or to report hazardous waste, contact council’s customer service team on (03) 5722 0888 or report an issue via council’s website. Gateway Health Wangaratta Alcohol and Other Drugs team leader Renee Simmons said improper syringe disposal is a real issue across the Hume region, but it’s often made worse by shame, stigma and lack of facilities. "Syringes aren’t just used for illegal substances, they’re also used by people with chronic health conditions like diabetes," she said. Gateway Health offers free sterile equipment, sharps containers and health education to anyone in the community. Ms Simmons said you don’t have to be a client. "We’re here to reduce harm and keep everyone safer," she said. "We also provide free Naloxone at our Wodonga and Wangaratta sites, which can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose and save a life. "It’s easy to use, non-addictive and available to anyone who needs it. "Community safety starts with access and respect and we’ll continue working with councils and local services to improve safe disposal options and support for everyone.”

Help keep our community safe by responsibly disposing of syringes

Making it easier to give the gift of life

State-wide alcohol and other drugs strategy launched

Five NHW volunteers recognised on the Victorian Health Volunteer Honour Roll

A healthy result for NHW

DonateLife Victoria strengthens regional support with new role

Rufous Whistler – arrival of a summer songbird

Bombers go back-to-back in A grade

“No stone unturned” – Police committed to the long-haul in manhunt

Start your engines, Wilby Drags are back

Most popular stories