Goondiwindi locals can now recycle their containers while out and about thanks to a new Containers for Change trial initiative implemented by Goondiwindi Regional Council.
The council has installed 10 Container Exchange Points in Goondiwindi, which are attachments to public bins or park shelters that allow people to leave their eligible containers in a basket to be collected by another in exchange for the 10-cent refund.
The attachments are provided to councils free of charge by Container Exchange (COEX), the not-for-profit that runs Containers for Change, and are designed to encourage recycling in public spaces.
They also help councils reduce public infrastructure damage and maintenance costs by providing a community-friendly alternative to searching through bins for containers.
Goondiwindi Regional Council joins a growing network of 20 councils statewide using Container Exchange Points to tackle litter and make recycling more accessible.
Trevor Evans, Interim Chief Executive Officer of COEX, said the initiative was a practical way to ensure more containers consumed away from home are collected and returned through the scheme.
“Container Exchange Points are a fantastic way for councils to boost their recycling rates, reduce litter and prolong the life of council bins, while putting more 10-cent refunds back into their community,” Mr Evans said.
“We’re pleased to partner with Goondiwindi Regional Council to deliver a practical solution that benefits the local environment and community.”
“These Containers for Change baskets are a simple but effective initiative for our community,” Cr Rob Mackenzie, Deputy Mayor and portfolio holder for Waste, Regulatory Services and Planning at Goondiwindi Regional Council said.
“Not only do they encourage people to recycle and reduce waste, but every bottle or can returned through the scheme provides a 10-cent refund that can help support local residents, sporting clubs and community groups.
“Ten baskets are being trialled across eight locations throughout Goondiwindi on bins and park shelters in parks, the main street and walking paths. This initiative demonstrates how small, practical improvements can have a lasting impact.
“By making recycling more convenient in our public spaces, we’re encouraging positive habits, reducing waste, and supporting a cleaner Goondiwindi Region for everyone to enjoy.”
The region’s local Containers for Change operator, E&E Waste, welcomed the installations and looks forward to the initiative creating more opportunities for eligible containers to be recycled through the scheme.
“As a local operator, we’re proud to make recycling easier for the Goondiwindi community and help more people take part in Containers for Change and benefit from the 10-cent refund,” Shane McGuire, Owner and Director at E&E Waste said.
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