Port Macquarie is one of 200 locations across the state to have over-the-counter collection points for the new container deposit scheme Return and Earn.

The scheme began on Friday, December 1, with Matthews Metal Recycling, 5 Belah Road, Port Macquarie, as the first collection point and three new locations will start next week – Hope Shops in Port Macquarie and Lake Cathie, and Honour Church, The Ruins Way, Lake Innes. A Reverse Vending Machine will be located at Woolworths Settlement City in the new year.

People returning eligible containers at over-the-counter locations can get a 10 cent refund. Reverse vending machines offer electronic transfer using PayPal, a cash refund, an in-store credit at a local retail partner, or donate to selected charities.

Almost 50 per cent of litter by volume is beverage containers. Return and Earn will capture 43 per cent of this litter. It is the largest litter reduction initiative in NSW. The scheme will help reduce the 160 million bottles littered in our environment annually.

There have been some teething problems, but I am sure these are being ironed out. I have already heard of children picking up suitable bottles and cans for extra pocket money – adding to their saving and helping to save the environment.

The Cancer Council, St Vincent de Paul, Surf Life Saving NSW, and Planet Ark are the charities featured on reverse vending machines to date. Schools and community groups  and other non-profits can register to become a donation partner under the rotation system. A map of collection points is available at returnandearn.org.au

Merry Christmas

My staff and I would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a safe and relaxing New Year. The Port Macquarie electorate office in Grant Street will be closed from 4pm, this Friday, December 22, and will reopen at 9am, January 8, 2018.