Land is an increasingly precious commodity. Yet still we waste large tracts by sending stuff to the tip in ever-greater quantities. Not just household waste; there’s green waste, building waste, construction waste, industrial waste and hazardous waste.

It’s estimated that around 20 per cent of the average home recycling bin contains materials that are, for most processes, too tough to recycle.

But what if it could all be kept out of landfill? Better yet – what if the recycled materials were a product in their own right?

This issue has long intrigued Weston Aluminium managing director Garbis Simonian. His vision is for industry to mimic nature. In nature, there is no waste. Everything is recycled.

Mr Simonian calls this concept industrial ecology. I had the opportunity to speak with Mr Simonian recently and be given a very exciting look into his big-picture vision for the Hunter Industrial Ecology Park, at Weston.

While the park is still in its formative stages, Mr Simonian envisages major expansion of the site, its operations and, importantly, its workforce.

The next stage of this process is imminent, as Mr Simonian expects approval from the NSW Government for a high-temperature medical waste disposal facility very soon.

This project could be great news for the environment and mean more jobs for our area. Watch this space.

I have just celebrated my second anniversary as your elected Federal Representative for Paterson and I marked the occasion with a good Aussie bonfire and barbecue at my place with my closest friends, family members and supporters.

I'd like to take this opportunity to thank these people for everything they do to help me and the people of Paterson, whom I represent. And to the many wonderful voters who showed faith in me at the ballot box, thank you with all my heart. Every day is an opportunity and an honour.