Tumut Resource Recovery Centre Tempoarily Closes Due to Odour Concerns

Published on 26 June 2025

Snowy Valleys Council has temporarily closed the Tumut Resource Recovery Centre (RRC) following health concerns linked to odours in the Gilmore Industrial area.

Council’s Director of Infrastructure and Works, Duncan Mitchell, said the decision was made in consultation with Valmar Support Services after staff raised concerns about the potential health impacts of the persistent and worsening smell.

“We’ve been in regular contact with Valmar since the odour issues re-emerged, but unfortunately, the situation has deteriorated rather than improved,” Mr Mitchell said. “As a result, and in the interest of staff safety, both Valmar and Council have determined the site is currently unsuitable for use.”

Community members are asked to delay visits to the Tumut RRC where possible or instead use the Adelong RRC, which will operate extended hours during the temporary closure.

Those wishing to recycle bottles and cans are encouraged to use the Return and Earn facility located in the Tumut Woolworths car park.

Mr Mitchell said kerbside waste collection services were unaffected.

“Residents should continue sorting their FOGO, recycling, and general waste as usual and place their bins out on collection days,” he said.

Mr Mitchell also stated that Council continues to escalate concerns about odours in the area, which remain unresolved.

“Council is preparing a formal letter to the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA), and the Minister for Energy and Climate Change, Minister for Environment and Heritage, calling for urgent intervention to address the odour issue and seeking compensation for the disruption caused by the closure,” he said.

Council is also currently seeking Legal Advice on avenues for compensation as a result of the closure of the facility.

Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

Council’s RRC opening hours are available via the SVC website www.svc.nsw.gov.au/RRC

-ENDS-