Update by: Ieva Pradal, Regional Procurement Coordinator
Wow, where did the time go? I can't believe December is already here! With the festive season upon us, I want to thank all our internal and external procurement stakeholders for helping FNQROC successfully wrap up another year. I hope everyone has planned some time off to enjoy a well-deserved break and reconnect with family and friends during this special holiday season!
Back to Regional Procurement! Over the past month, I have had the opportunity to travel across the region and visit several of our member Councils. The purpose of these visits was to gain a deeper understanding of Councils' ferrous and non-ferrous metal collection and recycling practices and to explore the operational aspects in detail. It was impressive to see SIMS machinery in action, supporting regional Councils in managing scrap metal—a valuable source of revenue stream. During the 2023/24 financial year, the region collected over 10,000 tonnes of ferrous metal, valued at $1.1 million, and over 350 tonnes of used lead-acid batteries (ULABs), valued at $140,000.
Additionally, more than 160 tonnes of non-ferrous metal, worth $290,000, were collected. With the current contract with SIMS Metal set to expire in November 2025, FNQROC is keen to explore opportunities for collaboration with additional suppliers in the region. This will ensure the continuous improvement of ferrous and non-ferrous metal collection while supporting small and medium-sized councils across the FNQ region.
In October 2024, we held a Regional Supply and Delivery of Sodium Hypochlorite contract meeting with Coogee Chemicals to discuss the contract, which has been running successfully since December 2022, with eleven member Councils continuing to participate. The arrangement delivers excellent value for money and benefits from centralised contract management provided by FNQROC. During the 2023/24 financial year, councils collectively used approximately 2.3 million litres of Sodium Hypochlorite, amounting to $1.35 million. Additionally, I had the opportunity to visit Coogee Chemicals' depot in Portsmith, Cairns, and observed their daily operations firsthand.
The last Procurement Committee Meeting for the year was held on Friday 6 December 2024. The meeting provided an opportunity to forecast the priorities for 2025 and consider emerging issues in the region. Working together, thinking strategically, and having meaningful discussions across the room is one way the region can collaborate effectively and add value to our respective communities.
2025 Date Claimers:
- FNQROC Supply and Delivery of Liquid Alum Sulphate and Aluminium Chloralhydrate Contract Meeting No.3, Tuesday 4 February 2025,Cairns Regional Council
- Regional Procurement Advisory Committee Meeting, Thursday 6 March 2025, Cairns Regional Council
- Regional Procurement Advisory Committee Meeting, Wednesday 4 June 2025, Cairns Regional Council