Residents in Holbrook are being encouraged to take part in the Return and Earn scheme this April by recycling eligible drink containers at the Holbrook Sporting Complex.
The initiative offers 10-cent refunds for every eligible bottle, can, or carton returned, providing a simple way to reduce local waste while giving back to the community, as revealed in a news release.
James Dorney, CEO of TOMRA Cleanaway, the network operator for Return and Earn, said the initiative presents a convenient opportunity for families and individuals to support environmental goals and contribute to community causes.
“Whether you’re saving for something special or supporting a cause close to your heart, it’s an easy way to contribute to the Holbrook community and help the environment,” Dorney said.
“Families can include Return and Earn in their routine by taking their drink containers to the next training session or game and earn a little extra cash.”
The Holbrook return point is one of more than 660 located throughout New South Wales. Since the scheme launched in 2017, more than 13.3 billion drink containers have been recycled, with over $1.3 billion returned to participants in the form of container refunds.
According to Mr Dorney, Greater Hume Council residents have played an active role in the scheme, returning over 10 million eligible containers through local return points since the program’s inception.
Located at lot 186 Bowler Street in the carpark near the basketball and tennis courts, the Holbrook Return and Earn machine operates daily from 8:00am to 8:00pm.
The facility is equipped with two chutes for lightweight containers—such as aluminium cans, plastic bottles, and cartons—and two chutes for glass, allowing for quick and efficient recycling.
Participants have several options for redeeming their refunds. Vouchers can be printed and used for cash or purchases at Holbrook News and Gifts, or refunds can be transferred electronically to a bank or PayPal account via the Return and Earn app.
The app also offers the option to donate refunds to more than 300 charitable organisations, including local groups such as Little Wings and Vinnies, as well as the current statewide donation partner Foodbank NSW & ACT.
According to Return and Earn, just five recycled containers can provide one meal through Foodbank’s food relief efforts.
Return and Earn has emerged as a fundraising tool for charities and community organisations across NSW, with over $72 million raised through donations and hosting fees since 2017.
For more details about the scheme or to find a return point, visit returnandearn.org.au.
