Re-use and recycle with GST

Novocastrians can declutter their homes and offload unwanted items by signing up for this month's Garage Sale Trail (GST) to help promote environmental sustainability.
 
The free national weekend of garage sales on 20-21 October is a popular way for people to connect with neighbours, find new homes for superfluous items and hunt for second-hand treasures while helping divert waste from landfill.

^{Members of Upcycle Newcastle, who have registered for Garage Sale Trail (left to right) are: Samantha Wells, Cathy Stuart and Melanie McKinnon.}  

Sellers can host a sale as a household, street or community group to make money individually or fundraise for a cause.
 
"City of Newcastle is proud to support Garage Sale Trail and the positive impacts it enables in communities right across Australia," Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said.
 
"It's a simple, fun way for everyone to re-use, reduce waste and minimise their impact on the environment while also getting to know their neighbours and others in the community.
 
"I encourage everyone to get involved, clear out some clutter and maybe even make a few dollars in the process."
 
Last year, nearly 3,000 Newcastle buyers scooped up pre-loved items from around 89 Newcastle households and groups who opened up their garages or held stalls.
 
More than 15,000 sales were held in neighbourhoods across the country with over 1.6 million treasures changing hands.
 
It's easy to find the best treasure in our region over the GST weekend. Just search online for sales by postcode or suburb or, if you're on the hunt for something specific, search by item or category.
 
Register your garage sale online or have a look at registered sales in Newcastle.
 
If you're hosting a sale and plan to dispose of unsold items, pre-book a bulk waste pick-up or Summerhill Waste Management Centre voucher to minimise wait time.
 
To use these services, complete a waste request form on our website or phone 4974 2000 weekdays during business hours.