New combined drumMUSTER and bagMUSTER collection point launches in Bega

L-R: Robert Spinks - Canberra Region Joint Organisation; Adrian Englefield - Agsafe; Luke Peel - Bega Regional Circularity Co-operative; Chloe Wilson - Zero Net Emissions Agriculture CRC; and Michael Boag - Bega Saleyards inspector.

Farmers and agricultural producers across the Bega Valley now have access to a more convenient and expanded recycling service, with the launch of a new co-located drumMUSTER and bagMUSTER collection cage in Bega.

The site marks an important milestone for bagMUSTER, representing its second state expansion beyond Victoria and Tasmania, and bringing the program to New South Wales for the first time in this region. The expansion responds to growing demand from industry for practical, accessible solutions to recycle agricultural packaging.

The new cage allows producers to drop off both eligible agricultural and veterinary (AgVet) chemical drums and single-use polypropylene agricultural bags in one location, streamlining what has traditionally required multiple disposal pathways.

“This is about making it easier for producers to do the right thing,” said Alicia Garden, CEO at Agsafe. “By co-locating drumMUSTER and bagMUSTER, we’re removing friction—producers can now manage both waste streams in a single trip.”

The program remains free to use and fully supported by industry, ensuring that farmers have ongoing access to responsible recycling options without additional cost.

To help ensure a fast and efficient drop-off process, producers are encouraged to prepare materials correctly before attending a collection site. Drums must be triple rinsed and free of chemical residue, with lids removed, while bags should be clean, dry and free of excessive dirt or mud. Properly prepared materials can be processed quickly and seamlessly at drop-off points.

The new site is expected to service producers across cropping, horticulture and livestock industries, while also supporting local rural retailers and agronomists who play a key role in promoting product stewardship practices.

“This expansion is a positive step forward for the region,” Alicia Garden said. “We’re building on the strong foundations of drumMUSTER and extending that success to bagMUSTER—giving farmers more options, more convenience, and better environmental outcomes.”

Producers are encouraged to take advantage of the new combined drop-off point and incorporate it into their regular farm operations. The new collection point, located at the Bega Valley Saleyards, 169 Kerrisons Lane, Bega NSW 2550, is open every third Tuesday of the month from 12:30pm to 4:00pm.

For more information on accepted materials and preparation requirements, please visit: bagMUSTER.org.au.