Council’s annual autumn leaf collection program will commence on Tuesday 5 May, running for approximately seven weeks to help manage seasonal leaf fall from Council‑owned street trees.
Leaf collection will be undertaken Tuesdays and Wednesdays, between 7.30am and 2.30pm, focusing on Colac’s northern streets where there is a high concentration of deciduous council trees.
Residents in eligible streets are encouraged to assist the program by heaping fallen leaves near the kerb prior to collection days, ensuring piles are kept clear of stormwater drains, footpaths, driveways, and parked vehicles.
The autumn leaf collection program is designed to supplement Council’s regular street sweeping and maintenance activities in selected areas. Due to the ongoing and natural nature of leaf fall, it is not feasible for Council to remove leaves continuously from all streets across the municipality.
Residents are reminded that leaves must not be swept or placed into stormwater drains, as this can cause blockages, increase flood risk, and damage drainage infrastructure.
Where practical, Council encourages residents to consider composting leaves, mulching garden beds, or using green waste services as environmentally responsible disposal options.
Council will continue to monitor conditions throughout the season and respond where leaf litter presents a genuine safety risk.
For more information, or to report an immediate safety concern related to leaf litter, residents can contact Colac Otway Shire Council on (03) 5232 9400 or lodge a request via Council’s website.