Snowy Monaro Regional Council (SMRC) has announced the success of the 2024 Garage Sale Trail, where local residents embraced the annual event in record numbers. Over two weekends in November, a staggering six tonnes of second-hand goods were diverted from landfill, as the community turned what could have been rubbish into valuable resources.
PHOTO: The 2024 Garage Sale Trail was a record breaking year in SMRC.
The program aims to increase community reuse of textiles and household items, reducing reliance on landfill for disposal and supporting the transition to a circular economy.
This year’s Garage Sale Trail impact report followed the National Guidelines for Measuring Reuse created by Monash University, and draws on research recently completed by Charitable Reuse Australia and the NSW Environmental Protection Authority.
Participation in SMRC saw a significant increase from the previous year, with 107 sales and stalls, up from 71 in 2023. According to a spokesperson for SMRC, “This was a record-breaking year, as 2,630 locals took part to declutter their homes and uncover bargains. Many items, 42 percent of the 10,455 sold, were saved from a fate in the bin.”
The event proved financially beneficial amidst the current cost-of-living crisis. Sellers pocketed an average of $519 each, with buyers collectively saving around $130,000 compared to the cost of purchasing new items. “It was a boon for our community, providing a much-needed financial boost while promoting sustainable consumption,” the spokesperson said.
PHOTO: Garage sales in Cooma.
Participation in the event has had lasting effects on the community’s consumption habits. “Eighty-eight percent of sellers and 65% of buyers reported they are more likely to resell items and buy second-hand, respectively,” highlighted the spokesperson, underscoring the positive shift towards reducing consumer impact on both the environment and personal finances.
SMRC advised residents eager to participate again need not wait until November 2025, as council supports year-round sustainable shopping through ScrapMart buyback tip shops.
The Garage Sale Trail, a national event, continues to grow and evolve, with over 400,000 Australians participating and diverting millions of kilos of goods from landfill annually. For those looking to join the trail next year or learn more, further information is available at www.garagesaletrail.com.au.