Council Recognised at 2026 Changemaker Awards

Published on 27 July 2026

Torres Shire Council awarded - Small Operator of the Year at the 2026 Changemaker Awards

Torres Shire Council is celebrating another significant milestone for its COEX / Containers for Change Program, following state recognition at the 2026 Changemaker Awards.

Earlier this year, Council proudly surpassed the remarkable milestone of one million containers processed through its Containers for Change depot, highlighting the community's ongoing commitment to recycling, environmental stewardship and sustainability across the Torres Strait.

Building on this achievement, Torres Shire Council was last week named Small Operator of the Year at the 2026 Changemaker Awards, hosted by COEX / Containers for Change.

The award recognises outstanding operators who drive positive change within their communities through excellence in leadership, innovation, customer service and workplace safety.

Mayor Elsie Seriat OAM said the award is a testament to the dedication of Council staff and the strong support of the Torres Strait community.

  "This recognition reflects the hard work and commitment of our Containers for Change team, who have built a program that not only delivers environmental and   economic benefits, but also encourages our community to care for our beautiful islands," Mayor Seriat said.

  "Reaching one million containers processed was already an incredible achievement. To now be recognised as the Small Operator of the Year is something our entire   community can be proud of."

Waste and Facilities Manager Daniel Barron accepted the award on behalf of Torres Shire Council from Michael Gonzales, Containers for Change Network Lead for Far North Queensland & First Nations.

Council remains committed to improving waste management practices, reducing landfill, and supporting sustainable initiatives that benefit both the environment and the Torres Shire community.

Photo credit: COEX / Containers for Change