Lambton Residents Distressed by regular Trespassers Making a Mess

Local residents are expressing growing concern over a series of trespassing incidents targeting private property in search of recyclable cans and bottles. The popularity of the Return and Earn scheme, which offers cash rewards for recyclables, has encouraged some individuals to intrude onto private property leading to safety concerns.

A recent Facebook post ignited a community discussion after footage was shared of a man entering a Lambton yard on 27th September 2024 to collect recyclables. The trespasser, captured on a doorbell camera, left behind a trail of disruption, including a knocked-over plant, an open gate, and discarded glass bottles.

Residents expressed their frustration and fear in the comments. One resident described the incident as “trespassing and obviously making residents feel unsafe,” while another suggested that the trespasser was familiar with the property layout. “By the looks of it, I reckon he’s been there before, knowing you collect the cans… hope you get the scumbag,” he commented.

The video poster acknowledged the vulnerability of his recyclables, visible through the fence, and emphasised the inconvenience of having to secure low-value items due to opportunistic theft. “I should keep them locked up in the garage,” he said.

While many commenters condemned the trespasser, others expressed sympathy for the individual’s apparent financial hardship. A woman noted, “Gosh, times are tough. My immediate reaction is that I feel sorry for the guy needing to steal rubbish.” However, the video poster countered that the recyclables had monetary value and questioned whether the same sympathy would extend to other forms of theft.

The Return and Earn program, which offers 10 cents for each eligible container, has been a popular initiative across New South Wales. While it promotes recycling and provides financial support for those in need, it has also contributed to a rise in incidents involving unauthorised access to private property.

The Lambton community is now calling for increased awareness and urging residents to take precautions, such as locking gates and securing valuables. The video poster has indicated that he will be reporting the incident to the police in hopes of identifying the trespasser.

“It’s not just about the cans,” he said. “It’s about feeling safe in your own home and not having to worry about someone wandering in, uninvited, to take whatever they want.”