Sustainability
Celebrate Threatened Species Month at Healesville Sanctuary!
This September, meet the dedicated Threatened Species Keepers at Healesville Sanctuary and discover our 27 Fighting Extinction priority species. Leave the Sanctuary inspired with a deeper appreciation for Australia’s precious wildlife and how you can help protect it.
National Threatened Species Day on the 7th of September marked the sad anniversary of the last Tasmanian Tiger (Thylacine) passing in 1936. To honour this important date, the Sanctuary is dedicating the entire month to Threatened Species awareness. Throughout September, enjoy extra talks, behind-the-scenes insights, and special activities that showcase the vital conservation work happening at Zoos Victoria. Together, we can create a future rich in wildlife.
For more information, click here
Disposing of Poisons Safely in Whitehorse
The incorrect disposal of poisonous material from around our homes can harm people, pets, waterways, waste workers, and the local environment.
What we mean by “Poisons”
By “poisons” / hazardous chemicals, we mean:
- Household chemicals (bleach, solvents, pesticides, weed-killers, etc.)
- Oils, varnishes, paints, thinners, adhesives
- Aerosols, gas canisters
- Sharps / used needles and syringes
- Unused / expired pharmaceuticals / medicines
What You Shouldn’t Do
- Don’t put hazardous chemicals in your household rubbish or recycling bins. They may react, leak, or cause fires.
- Don’t pour chemicals down drains or toilets.
- Don’t leave syringes/needles loose (without a sharps container).
Tips for Safe Storage & Transport Before Disposal
- Keep poisons in their original containers if possible. If not, clearly label the content.
- Don’t mix chemicals. Dangerous reactions can occur.
- Seal lids tightly. Store in a secure, cool, dry place away from children or pets.
- Transport in your car boot (or trays) so that containers won’t spill.
Why This Matters
- Protects human health & prevents accidental poisoning
- Prevents hazardous chemicals from entering waterways and soil
- Reduces fire risk in waste trucks and sorting facilities
- Ensures compliance with environmental laws and community safety standards
Here are the key services and guidelines for Whitehorse residents:
| Type of Hazardous Material | How to Dispose in Whitehorse |
|---|---|
| Household chemicals | Whitehorse participates in Victoria’s Detox Your Home program which provides drop-off events and permanent disposal options for toxic household chemicals. The Whitehorse Recycling & Waste Centre accepts paint (up to 100 litres) free of charge.
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| Sharps / syringes / needles | Free disposal service available to residents. Get a sharps container from Nunawading Civic Centre or Box Hill Town Hall Customer Service Hub, fill safely, and return to those same service centres.
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| Pharmaceuticals & medicines | Unwanted, expired or unused medicines can be returned to many local pharmacies via the Returned Unwanted Medicines (RUM) Project.
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| Electronic waste (e-waste), light globes, small batteries etc. | Many items are not accepted in regular bins. Whitehorse offers drop-off points at Customer Service Centres and at the Recycling & Waste Centre.
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| Paints, varnishes, adhesives, flammable liquids etc. | These are hazardous and should go via permanent hazardous drop-off points or at Detox events. Pouring them down drains or putting them into general waste is not acceptable under local rules. |
For further information, click here
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