Community
8 August, 2024
One million containers now deposited
THE Container Deposit Scheme (CDS) has now seen one million containers returned at the Terang collection point less than a year after it opened, as more than 70 million containers have been returned across the Barwon South West region.
Since beginning in November 2023, the scheme has refunded more than $7 million back to the Barwon South West community.
In Corangamite Shire the scheme has resulted in 2,387,789 containers returned with $238,778 returned to the community.
The scheme has also created positive flow-on effects for local residents in Terang, where disability service provider Cooinda has proven to be much more than a convenient refund collection site for locals to return their eligible containers.
Local can collector Brian used to collect cans throughout the year and sell them by weight to fund his annual fishing holiday.
Since the Reverse Vending Machine (RVM) was installed locally, at 49 Dow Street, he has raised enough funds to replace his aging caravan.
Cooinda Terang general manager Phil Hose said it’s just one example of how the refund collection site has created flow on benefits for the community.
“The RVM at our site has been so successful that we now have a second machine installed to keep up with demand,” he said.
“We have now processed one million containers, which has given our employees a great sense of purpose and opportunity to connect with the community each day.
“The facility has had great ‘buy in’ from the participants at Cooinda, and the public as a whole. The redemption point at Crawley’s Milk bar has proven a convenient and reliable partner and the public have given great feedback as we fine tune the access and service we provide.
“Upon reaching the one million container mark we reflect on the impact this must have on existing waste management systems, on our environment and on those able to get dollars in their pocket.”
Mr Hose said the model incorporating Cooinda and network operator Tomra Cleanaway, in addition to the CDS return point being accessible for the public, was a “win-win partnership for all parties”.
“One of the most important wins for us, has been the engagement of participants with the scheme,” he said.
“Many take pride in their roles, cleaning, assisting with bins, meeting the truck drivers, members of the public and collecting and depositing cans themselves.”
VicReturn, the CDS coordinator appointed by the Victorian Government, chief executive officer Jim Round visited the Terang CDS point this week, celebrating the scheme as going from strength to strength across the region.
“The Container Deposit Scheme now has hundreds of return points across the state which means it’s easier than ever for people to return their drink containers and keep them out of landfill,” he said.
“I have loved visiting the RVM in Terang and the depot in Warrnambool this week to see firsthand how these sites are giving back to the community, not only by giving people the option to donate their refunds but also by creating meaningful jobs and community connections.”
To find out more, including the location of your nearest collection point visit cds.vic.org.au.