Barwon Coast has installed two new Big Belly solar compacting bins outside The Dunes Café in Ocean Grove, designed to improve the way we manage landfill (general waste) in this popular coastal area.

Big Belly bins use solar power to compact rubbish as it’s deposited, increasing the amount of waste they can hold – up to five times more than a standard public bin.

When full, the system sends an alert to our waste team, meaning the bins are only collected when needed. This helps reduce unnecessary truck movements, prevent overflowing bins, and keep the foreshore clean and safe.

With their enclosed design and hands-free foot pedal, Big Belly bins also minimise windblown litter, pest access, and visible rubbish.

This installation is part of a trial to explore smarter, more sustainable waste solutions across the Barwon Coast. We’ll be monitoring their performance to inform future improvements.