New Return and Earn Recycling Machine Opens in Cameron Park

A new Return and Earn machine has been unveiled in Cameron Park, offering residents an additional location to recycle eligible bottles and cans. The machine, located in the carpark of IGA Cameron Park, marks the 16th return point within the Lake Macquarie Local Government Area (LGA), as part of a broader push to encourage recycling and environmental sustainability across New South Wales.

The Return and Earn program, launched in December 2017, allows consumers to recycle certain drink containers in exchange for a 10-cent refund per item. This initiative, aimed at reducing litter and promoting recycling, has proven popular, with millions of containers returned each week. Participants can choose to receive their refund in the form of a voucher redeemable for cash, an e-voucher, or a direct payment to their bank or PayPal account via the Return and Earn app.

Local MP Clayton Barr praised the opening of the new facility, highlighting the convenience it provides for residents. “Having more Return and Earn machines in easily accessible locations like this one at Cameron Park is key to helping the community take action on waste reduction,” Barr said.

Located at 97 Northlakes Drive, the new machine operates from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm daily. Users can deposit a range of eligible drink containers, including bottles, cans, and cartons, with their refund redeemable at IGA Cameron Park. For those who prefer digital transactions, refunds can be directed into their bank account or via PayPal through the Return and Earn app.

Return and Earn has become a vital part of New South Wales’ efforts to combat litter, with over 8 billion drink containers returned since the scheme’s inception. The program targets commonly littered items, including glass and plastic bottles, aluminium cans, and liquid paperboard cartons. By providing financial incentives for recycling, the initiative has helped decrease the volume of litter found in public spaces and waterways.

Lake Macquarie now hosts a total of 16 Return and Earn locations. This latest addition at Cameron Park provides further support for the growing local population, making recycling efforts more accessible for families and individuals.

Residents are encouraged to continue making use of the Return and Earn machines and contribute to the environmental efforts of the region. For more details, visit the official Return and Earn website at www.returnandearn.org.au.