Connecting with our regional operators
While many of us associate recycling with our local kerbside bin, Return and Earn, stretches far beyond the bustling streets of metropolitan Sydney. With over 660 return points scattered across New South Wales, the TOMRA Cleanaway network is a vital link, connecting communities from coastal towns to the most remote corners of the state.
Recently, our very own NSW Network Development and Compliance Manager, Carolyn Adam, embarked on an extensive road trip through regional and remote NSW, accompanied by Account Managers Lucy and Xenia. Their mission? To explore the vast TOMRA Cleanaway network for Return and Earn firsthand, connecting with operators and understanding the unique needs of communities outside the major urban centres.
The journey was a testament to the extensive reach of the Return and Earn scheme and our network. Their itinerary included:
- Broken Hill Return and Earn Depot: Operated by the dedicated team at Channings, this depot is a cornerstone of recycling in the Far West.
- Wilcannia Redi Over the Counter return point: A crucial access point for residents in this remote town.
- Ivanhoe Local Post Office: Another vital Over the Counter return point, demonstrating the adaptability of the scheme.
- Hay and Griffith Over the Counter return points: Solidifying the network’s presence in the Riverina region.
Throughout their travels, Carolyn, Lucy, and Xenia met with the committed operators of these return points, engaged with local community members, and gained invaluable insights into how people in these diverse areas utilise Return and Earn.
Their conversations highlighted the critical role the scheme plays in providing convenient and accessible recycling options for everyone, regardless of their location.
The Positive Impact of Return and Earn in Regional NSW
When asked about her key takeaways from the trip, Carolyn emphasised the profound impact of Return and Earn on regional towns. “Return and Earn has a very positive impact on regional towns like Wilcannia,” she shared. “Not only creating jobs at the over the counter return point, but the shed itself is being used to help locals stay busy. Redie is collecting old items, for example pool tables, and allowing locals to restore items onsite.” This showcases how Return and Earn points can become more than just recycling hubs, evolving into community assets that foster engagement and skill-building.
Beyond the professional insights, the trip offered some unforgettable personal experiences. Carolyn’s highlight was “The amazing sunset from Ivanhoe to Hay as well as discovering a little pub in Hay (South Hay Hotel), who has a resident Lizard, pub dog and the most amazing Chicken Parmi. The outside of the pub definitely does not match the inside, highly recommend to anyone that is travelling through Hay.” She added, “On a more serious side though just being able to visit towns like Wilcannia, Hay and Broken Hill is pretty special in itself, these are not ordinarily on my travel bucket list however they are all so special in their own way and definitely have a lot of character and charm.”
Lucy, ever the nature enthusiast, found her highlight in the abundant wildlife. “Agree with Carolyn,” she said, “but the wildlife out there is always a highlight for me (heaps of emus, goats, and kangaroos).”
For Xenia, the allure of the country was equally strong. “I love the country and find it very refreshing to get away every now and again,” she commented. “It was a great experience flying over red dirt! I took some photos from the plane. Watching the sunset in a remote landscape was also a highlight. It was great to meet the operators of Channings Broken Hill Depot and hear about their strong passion for Return and Earn.”
Delivering an accessible Container Deposit Scheme Network
This trip underscores TOMRA Cleanaway’s commitment to ensuring that every community in NSW has access to convenient and effective recycling solutions through the Return and Earn scheme. From the bustling urban centres to the vast and beautiful outback, the network of over 660 return points continues to grow, empowering individuals to make a difference for a cleaner, greener New South Wales.
