TOMRA Cleanaway, the network operator behind the Return and Earn container deposit scheme in NSW, continues to make recycling even more accessible with the addition of a new return point and upcoming upgrades in Wollongong.

A brand-new Return and Earn machine, operated by TOMRA Cleanaway, has opened at First Choice Liquor in North Wollongong. Conveniently located at 2a Flinders St, just metres from North Wollongong train station. The machine is open daily—9am to 8pm on weekdays and 10am to 8pm on weekends.

North Wollongong Return and Earn machine

This marks the 16th return point in the Wollongong City Council area. The North Wollongong Return and Earn machine part of TOMRA Cleanaway’s ongoing mission to make container returns quick, easy, and rewarding for local communities.

The new machine is the latest technology, making it even easier for Wollongong residents to Return and Earn. The new generation machine builds on the Return and Earn brand’s success over the last 7 years with bold use of the brand colours; but it is the customer experience that we are most proud of.

Customers of the new machines will experience faster returns with takes all across all lines, and dynamic messaging panels to communicate key messages about operating hours, container eligibility, and donation partners.

Return and Earn in Wollongong

To further support the Illawarra region’s strong participation in Return and Earn, TOMRA Cleanaway is also upgrading two existing return points:

These upgrades will introduce the latest “takes-all” technology—allowing all eligible containers to be deposited through any chute, with no need to pre-sort.

Customers using the North Wollongong Return and Earn Machine can choose from multiple refund options: print a voucher redeemable for purchases or cash at Coles, opt for an e-voucher, or receive payment directly into their bank or PayPal account via the Return and Earn app.

TOMRA Cleanaway also enables residents to donate their refunds via the Return and Earn app to more than 300 charities, including local causes like Wollongong Homeless Hub and the current statewide donation partner, Foodbank NSW & ACT, where donating just five containers to Foodbank NSW & ACT can help provide a meal to someone in need.

Paul Scully, Member for Wollongong, praised the ongoing efforts:
“Wollongong residents are enthusiastic recyclers, having returned over 376 million eligible bottles, cans and cartons through local return points since the scheme began.
Thanks to TOMRA Cleanaway’s continued work, it’s easier than ever for locals to recycle and collect their 10c refunds—whether they’re commuting, shopping, or just out and about.”

Since the launch of Return and Earn, over 13 billion drink containers have been returned through the statewide network managed by TOMRA Cleanaway, with more than $1.3 billion in refunds back in the hands of the community.

For more details, visit: www.returnandearn.org.au