In 2015 more than nine tonnes of unwanted televisions, VCRs, hand-held games and other electronic waste was collected at council e-waste drop off days heading into the year’s final event at Lemon Tree Passage.

The electronic and chemical waste drop off day on Saturday, November 28, marks the culmination of a year-long program targeting e-waste, mattresses, tyres and chemicals held at sites across Port Stephens.

Residents are invited to take e-waste including microwaves, stereos, mobile phones, computers, kitchen appliances, hand tools, household quantities of oils, paints, gas bottles and chemicals for safe disposal to the old waste transfer station on Lemon Tree Passage Road in Lemon Tree Passage.

Dr Aaron Malloy, the council’s waste management coordinator, said that e-waste had so far amassed 9.12 tonnes of unwanted items, in addition to 30 tonnes collected at the Salamander Bay site.

Green waste drop off days have also increased in the lead up to summer, with two per month now being held at Salamander Bay, Raymond Terrace and Lemon Tree Passage from October to March.

‘‘Port Stephens offers more drop off days than any of our neighbouring councils because patronage rates indicate it’s an important service for our community," Dr Malloy said.

‘‘As well as electrical items, the council has held five mattress drop off days this year collecting almost 500 mattress, and this year added tyre collections that resulted in 569 tyres.

‘‘That tells us that people want and are using these services."

Dr Malloy said the drop-off days had also played an important role in reducing the incidence of illegal dumping in Port Stephens.