A new Return and Earn machine has been installed at Ballina Fair shopping centre, providing residents with an additional location to recycle eligible drink containers.
The machine, located in the car park at 284 Kerr Street, is the second return point in the Ballina area and operates daily from 8:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
James Dorney, CEO of TOMRA Cleanaway, the network operator for Return and Earn, highlighted the enthusiasm of Ballina residents for the scheme.
“Ballina Shire Council residents are enthusiastic recyclers, having returned over 56 million eligible bottles, cans, and cartons through local return points since the scheme began,” Dorney said.
Participants in the scheme can choose to receive their 10-cent refund via a printed voucher redeemable for cash at Woolworths, an e-voucher, or a direct deposit into their bank or PayPal account through the Return and Earn app.
The initiative has also provided financial support to charities and community groups across New South Wales.
Since its launch in 2017, more than $72 million has been raised through donations and hosting fees from return points.
Over 300 donation partners are listed on the Return and Earn app, including Teven Tintenbar Public School P&C, which is fundraising for school projects and equipment.
The statewide donation partner, Foodbank NSW & ACT, also receives contributions through the scheme, supporting food relief efforts for individuals and families in need.
Since its inception, Return and Earn has facilitated the recycling of 13 billion drink containers across more than 650 return points in NSW, generating over $1.3 billion in refunds for the community.
Encouraging broader participation, Dorney noted the dual benefits of the program.
“I encourage everyone to make Return and Earn a part of your regular recycling routine. Not only does it help the environment, but it gives people a great chance to get a bit of extra cash in their pockets,” he said.
Further information about Return and Earn is available at www.returnandearn.org.au.
