WRIQ

WRIQ Member Breakfast: RPAS (Drone) Technology Showcase for the Waste and Recycling Industry
2026-02-12 07:00 - 09:00 (Australia/Melbourne) | REMONDIS Swanbank Renewable Energy and Waste Management Facility, 426 Swanbank Road, Swanbank, Qld, 4306, Australia
WRIQ will host a Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) technology showcase, delivered by the Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation. This practical session will give members a first-hand look at how advanced drone technology is being used by government to support monitoring, surveying and data analysis across waste and resource recovery operations.
The session will include a presentation from the department’s RPAS team outlining current flight operations, tools and analytical capabilities, followed by a live flight demonstration of a fixed-wing survey drone (the Quantum Systems Trinity Pro). Experienced government pilots will walk through how data is captured, processed and used to inform regulatory oversight and operational decision-making.
Why attend

See RPAS technology in action and understand its real-world capabilities
Learn how drones can support waste facility monitoring, site management and data collection
Understand how government is using these tools — and what that means for industry
Explore how similar technologies could be implemented within waste and recycling operations to improve efficiency, safety and compliance

This showcase is designed to help members better understand emerging technology, its practical applications, and how it can be leveraged within the waste and recycling sector
Thank you to our event host

REGISTRATION
WRIQ Members: $90 inc GST • Non Members: $125 inc GST
Breakfast will be provided
Bookings close 12noon, Friday 6 February 2026
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER NOW

WRIQ Jobseeker Webinar: More than you Think: Lifting the lid on careers in waste and recycling
2026-03-12 13:00 - 14:30 | Online
The waste and recycling industry is one of Queensland’s essential services. Stable, recession-resistant and offering a wide range of career pathways that many job seekers don’t realise exist.
This free online webinar is for job seekers who are:

leaving school, TAFE or are new to the workforce
considering a career change
looking for steady, long-term employment
early in their working lives and exploring industry options
curious about industries they may not have previously considered
No prior experience in waste and recycling is required.

Attend to take part int a match-making survey that will link people like you with employers who have real job vacancies and are looking to hire rightaway.
While the session will be most relevant to drivers, trades and operational job seekers, it will also cover office-based and professional roles across the sector. Feature a panel of industry employers, hiring managers and workforce specialists, you will hear honest, practical insights into what working in the waste and recycling industry is really like — and how to put your best foot forward when applying.
Panellists

Benjamin Nagy, Facility Supervisor, Re.Group
Peta Rutherford, HSE Manager, BMI Group
Lacey Webb, Founder and CEO, ResourceHub
Natasha Bryer, Strategic Sourcing, Recruitment Manager – Careers Team, JJ’s Waste and Recycling
Matthew Dyer, Business Development Manager, ResourceCo

Moderator: Alix Baltais, Regional Manager (Qld) Envirocom
What you’ll learn
During the session, panellists give you real-world experience, not theory, giving you a clear picture of whether the industry is the right fit for you, and how to take the next step. Topics will cover:

the types of roles available across the waste and recycling industry
where people typically start and how careers develop over time
the skills, attitudes and attributes employers value most
safety expectations and what good workplace behaviour looks like
common misconceptions about the industry
practical advice for job seekers looking to enter the sector

About the industry
Waste Recycling Industry Queensland (WRIQ) is the peak body representing Queensland’s waste, recycling and resource recovery sector. Our more than 100 member organisations collectively process around 97% of Queensland’s waste and recycling.
The industry employs thousands of Queenslanders across operational, technical, mechanical, compliance and office-based roles and continues to experience strong workforce demand.

REGISTRATIONFree of chargeWebinar will be held on Zoom. Access details will be sent by email one day prior to the event.Bookings close 12noon, Wednesday 11 March 2026CLICK HERE TO REGISTER NOW

Future Waste Resources Symposium
2026-03-18 08:00 - 2026-03-19 16:00 | InterContinental Brisbane, 190 Elizabeth St, Brisbane, Qld, 4000, Australia
The Waste Recycling Industry Association Queensland (WRIQ) is pleased to invite you to join us for the 2026 Future Waste Resources Symposium (FWR 2026), to be held on 18 & 19 March 2026 at the Intercontinental Brisbane.
Following on from FWR 2025, this streamlined event has been designed to maintain momentum and foster continued collaboration across Queensland’s waste and recycling sector, bringing industry, government and other stakeholders together to address the most pressing and complex challenges facing Queensland’s waste industry.
The program will focus on four key areas:

Strengthening collaboration between councils and industry to improve household waste recycling and diversion
Exploring regional and metropolitan approaches to lift municipal solid waste (MSW) recycling rates
Providing feedback to the Queensland Infrastructure Plan as part of the State’s Waste Strategy Review
Understanding the systemic complexities and identifying actionable next steps for real change

The challenges facing our industry are complex, but they also present significant opportunities – for innovation, for economic development, and for positioning Queensland as a national leader in recycling.
We invite you to take part in the Future Waste Resources Symposium and contribute to shaping a more sustainable, resilient and collaborative waste and recycling future for Queensland.

Click Here to go to the FWR website

WRIQ Pilot Course: Asbestos Training for the Waste and Recycling Industry
2026-03-23 10:00 - 12:00 | Online
WRIQ is launching a limited pilot delivery of the nationally accredited course Recognising and Responding to Asbestos Risk in the Waste and Recycling Industry (11395NAT).
This training has been developed specifically for workers in the waste and recycling sector who may encounter asbestos-containing materials during routine operations. Participants will gain practical knowledge to recognise asbestos risks, respond safely to incidents, and follow correct procedures to protect workers, facilities and the community.
The course includes two nationally recognised units of competency:• Recognise asbestos risk in waste and recycling (NAT11395001)• Respond to asbestos containing materials in waste and recycling (NAT11395002)
Participants will learn how to identify asbestos-containing materials, conduct safe inspections of waste loads, use appropriate PPE, and apply correct containment and reporting procedures when asbestos is discovered.
As part of this industry pilot, WRIQ is offering a limited number of fully funded places for WRIQ members. Feedback from participants will help refine the training before wider industry rollout.
Places are limited and early registration is encouraged.
Course dates:

Monday 23 March 10am to 12pm
Tuesday 24 March 10am to 12pm
Monday 30 March 10am to 12pm
Tuesday 31 March 10 to 12pm

Who should attend
This course is designed for workers across the waste and recycling industry who may encounter asbestos-containing materials during routine operations.
It is suitable for:

Landfill and transfer station operators
Resource recovery and recycling facility workers
Waste transport and logistics operators
Supervisors and site managers responsible for waste operations
Health, safety and environmental personnel working in waste facilities
Any workers required to identify or respond to suspected asbestos in waste loads

What you will learn
Participants will gain practical knowledge and nationally accredited training to safely manage asbestos risks in waste and recycling environments.
Key learning outcomes include:

How to recognise common asbestos-containing materials in waste streams
Understanding the health risks and legal responsibilities associated with asbestos
Conducting safe inspections of incoming waste loads
Identifying friable and non-friable asbestos materials
Applying appropriate PPE and safety controls
Isolating, containing and reporting suspected asbestos incidents
Following workplace procedures and regulatory requirements when asbestos is discovered

Pilot course benefits
This pilot delivery provides an opportunity for WRIQ members to access nationally accredited training at no cost while helping shape the future of asbestos training for the industry.
Participants will benefit from:

Free enrolment for WRIQ members during the pilot stage
Nationally accredited training tailored specifically to the waste and recycling industry
Practical skills that improve workplace safety and regulatory compliance
Increased confidence in identifying and responding to asbestos risks
The opportunity to provide feedback to help refine the course before wider industry rollout

REGISTRATIONFree of chargeWebinar will be held on Zoom. Access details will be sent by email one day prior to the event.Bookings close 12noon, Friday 20 March 2026CLICK HERE TO REGISTER NOW

WRIQ Pilot Course: Asbestos Training for the Waste and Recycling Industry
2026-03-24 10:00 - 12:00 | Online
WRIQ is launching a limited pilot delivery of the nationally accredited course Recognising and Responding to Asbestos Risk in the Waste and Recycling Industry (11395NAT).
This training has been developed specifically for workers in the waste and recycling sector who may encounter asbestos-containing materials during routine operations. Participants will gain practical knowledge to recognise asbestos risks, respond safely to incidents, and follow correct procedures to protect workers, facilities and the community.
The course includes two nationally recognised units of competency:• Recognise asbestos risk in waste and recycling (NAT11395001)• Respond to asbestos containing materials in waste and recycling (NAT11395002)
Participants will learn how to identify asbestos-containing materials, conduct safe inspections of waste loads, use appropriate PPE, and apply correct containment and reporting procedures when asbestos is discovered.
As part of this industry pilot, WRIQ is offering a limited number of fully funded places for WRIQ members. Feedback from participants will help refine the training before wider industry rollout.
Places are limited and early registration is encouraged.
Course dates:

Monday 23 March 10am to 12pm
Tuesday 24 March 10am to 12pm
Monday 30 March 10am to 12pm
Tuesday 31 March 10 to 12pm

Who should attend
This course is designed for workers across the waste and recycling industry who may encounter asbestos-containing materials during routine operations.
It is suitable for:

Landfill and transfer station operators
Resource recovery and recycling facility workers
Waste transport and logistics operators
Supervisors and site managers responsible for waste operations
Health, safety and environmental personnel working in waste facilities
Any workers required to identify or respond to suspected asbestos in waste loads

What you will learn
Participants will gain practical knowledge and nationally accredited training to safely manage asbestos risks in waste and recycling environments.
Key learning outcomes include:

How to recognise common asbestos-containing materials in waste streams
Understanding the health risks and legal responsibilities associated with asbestos
Conducting safe inspections of incoming waste loads
Identifying friable and non-friable asbestos materials
Applying appropriate PPE and safety controls
Isolating, containing and reporting suspected asbestos incidents
Following workplace procedures and regulatory requirements when asbestos is discovered

Pilot course benefits
This pilot delivery provides an opportunity for WRIQ members to access nationally accredited training at no cost while helping shape the future of asbestos training for the industry.
Participants will benefit from:

Free enrolment for WRIQ members during the pilot stage
Nationally accredited training tailored specifically to the waste and recycling industry
Practical skills that improve workplace safety and regulatory compliance
Increased confidence in identifying and responding to asbestos risks
The opportunity to provide feedback to help refine the course before wider industry rollout

REGISTRATIONFree of chargeWebinar will be held on Zoom. Access details will be sent by email one day prior to the event.Bookings close 12noon, Monday 23 March 2026CLICK HERE TO REGISTER NOW

WRIQ Pilot Course: Asbestos Training for the Waste and Recycling Industry
2026-03-30 10:00 - 12:00 | Online
WRIQ is launching a limited pilot delivery of the nationally accredited course Recognising and Responding to Asbestos Risk in the Waste and Recycling Industry (11395NAT).
This training has been developed specifically for workers in the waste and recycling sector who may encounter asbestos-containing materials during routine operations. Participants will gain practical knowledge to recognise asbestos risks, respond safely to incidents, and follow correct procedures to protect workers, facilities and the community.
The course includes two nationally recognised units of competency:• Recognise asbestos risk in waste and recycling (NAT11395001)• Respond to asbestos containing materials in waste and recycling (NAT11395002)
Participants will learn how to identify asbestos-containing materials, conduct safe inspections of waste loads, use appropriate PPE, and apply correct containment and reporting procedures when asbestos is discovered.
As part of this industry pilot, WRIQ is offering a limited number of fully funded places for WRIQ members. Feedback from participants will help refine the training before wider industry rollout.
Places are limited and early registration is encouraged.
Course dates:

Monday 23 March 10am to 12pm
Tuesday 24 March 10am to 12pm
Monday 30 March 10am to 12pm
Tuesday 31 March 10 to 12pm

Who should attend
This course is designed for workers across the waste and recycling industry who may encounter asbestos-containing materials during routine operations.
It is suitable for:

Landfill and transfer station operators
Resource recovery and recycling facility workers
Waste transport and logistics operators
Supervisors and site managers responsible for waste operations
Health, safety and environmental personnel working in waste facilities
Any workers required to identify or respond to suspected asbestos in waste loads

What you will learn
Participants will gain practical knowledge and nationally accredited training to safely manage asbestos risks in waste and recycling environments.
Key learning outcomes include:

How to recognise common asbestos-containing materials in waste streams
Understanding the health risks and legal responsibilities associated with asbestos
Conducting safe inspections of incoming waste loads
Identifying friable and non-friable asbestos materials
Applying appropriate PPE and safety controls
Isolating, containing and reporting suspected asbestos incidents
Following workplace procedures and regulatory requirements when asbestos is discovered

Pilot course benefits
This pilot delivery provides an opportunity for WRIQ members to access nationally accredited training at no cost while helping shape the future of asbestos training for the industry.
Participants will benefit from:

Free enrolment for WRIQ members during the pilot stage
Nationally accredited training tailored specifically to the waste and recycling industry
Practical skills that improve workplace safety and regulatory compliance
Increased confidence in identifying and responding to asbestos risks
The opportunity to provide feedback to help refine the course before wider industry rollout

REGISTRATIONFree of chargeWebinar will be held on Zoom. Access details will be sent by email one day prior to the event.Bookings close 12noon, Friday 27 March 2026CLICK HERE TO REGISTER NOW

WRIQ Pilot Course: Asbestos Training for the Waste and Recycling Industry
2026-03-31 10:00 - 12:00 | Online
WRIQ is launching a limited pilot delivery of the nationally accredited course Recognising and Responding to Asbestos Risk in the Waste and Recycling Industry (11395NAT).
This training has been developed specifically for workers in the waste and recycling sector who may encounter asbestos-containing materials during routine operations. Participants will gain practical knowledge to recognise asbestos risks, respond safely to incidents, and follow correct procedures to protect workers, facilities and the community.
The course includes two nationally recognised units of competency:• Recognise asbestos risk in waste and recycling (NAT11395001)• Respond to asbestos containing materials in waste and recycling (NAT11395002)
Participants will learn how to identify asbestos-containing materials, conduct safe inspections of waste loads, use appropriate PPE, and apply correct containment and reporting procedures when asbestos is discovered.
As part of this industry pilot, WRIQ is offering a limited number of fully funded places for WRIQ members. Feedback from participants will help refine the training before wider industry rollout.
Places are limited and early registration is encouraged.
Course dates:

Monday 23 March 10am to 12pm
Tuesday 24 March 10am to 12pm
Monday 30 March 10am to 12pm
Tuesday 31 March 10 to 12pm

Who should attend
This course is designed for workers across the waste and recycling industry who may encounter asbestos-containing materials during routine operations.
It is suitable for:

Landfill and transfer station operators
Resource recovery and recycling facility workers
Waste transport and logistics operators
Supervisors and site managers responsible for waste operations
Health, safety and environmental personnel working in waste facilities
Any workers required to identify or respond to suspected asbestos in waste loads

What you will learn
Participants will gain practical knowledge and nationally accredited training to safely manage asbestos risks in waste and recycling environments.
Key learning outcomes include:

How to recognise common asbestos-containing materials in waste streams
Understanding the health risks and legal responsibilities associated with asbestos
Conducting safe inspections of incoming waste loads
Identifying friable and non-friable asbestos materials
Applying appropriate PPE and safety controls
Isolating, containing and reporting suspected asbestos incidents
Following workplace procedures and regulatory requirements when asbestos is discovered

Pilot course benefits
This pilot delivery provides an opportunity for WRIQ members to access nationally accredited training at no cost while helping shape the future of asbestos training for the industry.
Participants will benefit from:

Free enrolment for WRIQ members during the pilot stage
Nationally accredited training tailored specifically to the waste and recycling industry
Practical skills that improve workplace safety and regulatory compliance
Increased confidence in identifying and responding to asbestos risks
The opportunity to provide feedback to help refine the course before wider industry rollout

REGISTRATIONFree of chargeWebinar will be held on Zoom. Access details will be sent by email one day prior to the event.Bookings close 12noon, Monday 30 March 2026CLICK HERE TO REGISTER NOW

WRIQ 500 Club Lunch
2026-06-03 12:00 - 14:00 | To be advised
You are warmly invited to an exclusive luncheon for senior industry executives and retirees who bring more than 20 years of experience to the table.
Enjoy a relaxed three course lunch while taking part in candid conversations with respected industry leaders. This is a valuable opportunity to exchange insights, reflect on emerging trends and challenges, and help shape future priorities for WRIQ.
Spend the afternoon reconnecting with peers, sharing perspectives, and contributing to the next chapter of our industry’s story.

FURTHER DETAILS TO COME SOON

Future Leaders Event and Mentoring Program Launch
2026-06-18 | To be advised
Following the outstanding success of our 2025 Future Leaders Mentoring Program, WRIQ is proud to extend the initiative into a six-month professional development experience for 2026.
Event One: Setting the Foundations
The first of three in-person events will officially launch the 2026 program and bring mentors and mentees together for the first time.
This evening networking event will include:

A welcome and program overview
Guest industry speakers sharing career insights and leadership journeys
Informal networking to build broader peer connections

This event is designed to establish strong foundations — clear expectations, professional rapport, and an environment of trust — setting the tone for the six-month journey ahead.

FURTHER DETAILS TO COME SOON

Industry Forum: Lithium Battery Management & Risk
2026-06-23 14:00 - 17:30 | To be advised
As lithium-ion battery use accelerates across households, businesses and industry, so too do the safety, regulatory and operational challenges facing Queensland’s waste and resource recovery sector. This dedicated afternoon forum will bring industry leaders, operators, policymakers and safety specialists together for a focused discussion on lithium battery management — from prevention and risk mitigation through to recovery, regulation and future solutions.
Designed to move beyond awareness and toward coordinated, practical solutions that protect workers, infrastructure and the broader community, the forum will feature expert speakers, facilitated discussion and structured industry brainstorming to identify practical actions and priority areas for 2026 and beyond. The goal is simple: reduce risk, improve recovery outcomes, and strengthen collaboration across the supply chain.
Key areas of industry focus may include:

Fire prevention and site safety improvements
Collection and segregation best practice
Community education and behaviour change
Producer responsibility and stewardship reform
Insurance impacts and risk allocation
Regulatory settings and compliance challenges
Technology and infrastructure investment
Data gaps and incident reporting consistency
Cross-sector collaboration between councils, operators and manufacturers

FURTHER DETAILS TO COME SOON

Mental Health First Aid Training
2026-07-07 - 2026-07-08 | IPWEA-QNT Training Rooms, Level 1/6 Eagleview Pl,, Eagle Farm, QLD, 4006, Australia
The waste and recycling industry is fast-paced, demanding and often high-pressure. Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training equips your team with the skills to recognise mental health challenges early, respond with confidence, and support colleagues until professional help is available.
Creating mentally healthy workplaces isn’t just good practice – it’s essential.
What you’ll learn

How to recognise signs and symptoms of common mental health conditions
How to confidently start supportive conversations
How to respond to mental health crises
How to guide someone toward appropriate professional help
How to reduce stigma in the workplace

Who should attend

Supervisors, Managers & Team Leaders
WH & Safety Representatives
HR & People Managers
Anyone wanting to better support their colleagues

No prior mental health training required.
Delivered by Brett Lemin, Executive Director, WCRA NSW
Brett Lemin has extensive experience across the private and public sectors in various industries including Waste, Resource Recovery and Education. He has a strong background in the environmental and sustainability industry sectors through previous roles he has held and dealt with tenders and contract management. He has significant experience working with NGOs, legislators, regulators, various statutory authorities and research institutions.
Limited places availableNationally recognised accreditationDelivered by licenced MHFA instructor

REGISTRATIONWRIQ Members: $660 inc GST • Non Members: $825 inc GSTIncludes light lunch & refreshmentsBookings close 12noon, Wednesday 1 July 2026CLICK HERE TO REGISTER NOW

WRIQ 2026 Golf Day
2026-07-17 07:00 - 13:30 | Virginia Golf Club, 2 Elliott Road, Banyo, Qld, 4014, Australia
Join in the excitement at WRIQ’s 2026 Golf Day!
Gather your team of four or nominate individually to compete in a day filled with fun, competition, and networking opportunities.
The Golf day is played in the Ambrose Competition Format (4 players per team) with a shotgun start. Pairs and individual players will be placed in a team on the day. No golfing skills necessary, just bring your sense of fun!

PROGRAM*7:00am Player registration and breakfast (Bacon & Egg Rolls)7:50am Player briefing8:00am Shot gun start12:30pm BBQ Lunch and presentations
Tickets include course fees, buggy hire, breakfast, lunch and 3 x drinks vouchers per player.

The WRIQ Golf day is played in the Ambrose Competition Format (4 players per team)The competition is limited to 100 players (25 teams of 4 players). The day provides an excellent opportunity to get together a team with clients, suppliers and colleagues. If you need assistance with forming a team, please email events@wriq.com.au.
19th HOLEThere will be an opportunity for players to meet as a group for a BBQ lunch in the clubhouse (19th hole) after the game. Prizes will be presented in the clubhouse at approximately 1pm
DRESS CODE For information about the course dress regulations please visit https://www.virginiagolf.com.au/cms/dress-on-course-in-clubhouse/dress-on-the-course/ and https://www.virginiagolf.com.au/cms/dress-on-course-in-clubhouse/dress-in-the-clubhouse/
SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIESDon’t miss the chance to elevate your brand at the WRIQ 2026 Golf Day. Join us for a day of networking, golf, and industry excellence. Email events@wriq.com.au to request a prospectus.
WHAT IS AMBROSE GOLF? The Ambrose event is played in a team of four, where for each hole:

Each player in the team tees off
The team chooses the team’s best ball
All players hit their next shot from the location of the best ball
Repeat steps 2 and 3 until the hole is completed
The hole score is the number of strokes of the “best ball”

In essence, it allows players of a wide range of abilities to enjoy a competition as the team only needs to count the best shot each time.
Local rules on the day

Virginia Golf Club will brief players with Rules and format at 7.50am.

EQUIPMENT HIREIf required, equipment can be hired or bought from the Golf Shop at Virginia Golf Club. To make enquiries or bookings please call the Golf Shop on 07 3267 6333 – Option 1. Hire Clubs are $27.00per set (balls and tees not included)

*Every effort has been made to present all the information contained on this webpage as accurately as possible. WRIQ reserve the right to change, without notice, any or all of these details

FURTHER DETAILS TO COME SOON

WRIQ 2026 Industry Awards Dinner
2026-09-04 19:00 - 22:30 | voco Brisbane City Centre, 85-87 North Quay, Brisbane, Qld, 4000, Australia
Join us for a spectacular evening of celebration and recognition at the WRIQ Industry Awards Gala Dinner!
The WRIQ Industry Awards Gala Dinner is a prestigious occasion where we come together to acknowledge and honour outstanding individuals and companies who have displayed excellence throughout the year.
The 2026 awards will be presented at a Gala Dinner on Friday 4 September 2026. This special evening will feature industry recognition, entertainment, and networking opportunities for all attendees.
Join us for an unforgettable evening of recognition and inspiration as we highlight and celebrate the achievements of those who have contributed to the success of Queensland’s waste and resource recovery industry.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION COMING SOON

Thank you to our Gala Dinner and Awards Sponsors

WRIQ 2026 AGM and Christmas Lunch
2026-11-27 11:30 - 2026-11-28 14:30 | Emporium Hotel South Bank, 267 Grey Street, South Brisbane, QLD, Australia
The AGM will begin at 11:30am, followed by the Christmas Lunch from 12:00pm to 2:30pm.
The Waste Recycling Industry Association of Queensland (WRIQ) is pleased to invite you to one of the most anticipated events on Queensland’s waste and recycling industry calendar – our 2025 Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Christmas Lunch.
This annual event provides a unique forum to reflect on our shared achievements, discuss industry priorities for the year ahead, and strengthen professional networks in a relaxed and celebratory setting.
Tickets to this popular event are limited and will sell out fast secure your spot early to avoid disappointment. Tables will be allocated on a first in, best position basis so we recommend you book your tickets as early as possible.

REGISTRATION:WRIQ Members $180 inc GST, Table of 10 $1,750 inc GSTNon Members $240 inc GST, Table of 10 $2,350 inc GSTIncludes lunch and drinks. If you wish to attend the AGM only, there is no charge. Bookings close 4pm, Wednesday 18 November 2025CLICK HERE TO REGISTER NOW
