The Murray River region in NSW has helped the Return and Earn, hit a staggering new record recently with over 13 billion bottles, cans and cartons returned through the return point network since the scheme began. This means over $1.3 billion in container refunds have gone back into people’s pockets, helping with the cost of living, saving for a special goal or supporting amazing causes.
Following a record-breaking summer, with 23 December 2024 setting a record for the biggest single day ever at 10.3 million containers, 2024 ended as our biggest year yet with 2.125 billion containers returned.
“The Murray River community including Albury, Federation, Greater Hume, Berrigan and Edward River are enthusiastic users of Return and Earn and have collectively returned over 397 million drink containers through local return points since the scheme began,” said James Dorney, CEO of network operator TOMRA Cleanaway.
By local government area, here's how the numbers look:
|
LGA |
Containers returned Christmas/NY |
Containers returned since commencement |
|
Albury |
5,875,709 |
214.9 million |
|
Federation |
2,498,982 |
97.9 million |
|
Greater Hume |
287,672 |
10.3 million |
|
Berrigan |
1,340,382 |
30.2 million |
|
Edward River |
902,319 |
43.7 million |
|
Total |
10,905,064 |
397 million |
Over $72 million has also been raised for charities and community groups through donations and return point hosting fees, supporting their important work from providing food and shelter to environmental conservation.
“If you’re visiting a Return and Earn machine or depot, why not consider supporting one of over 300 donation partners listed on the Return and Earn app or to our current statewide donation partner Foodbank NSW & ACT? The food relief charity provides much needed assistance to those in need, and just five containers donated can fund one meal for someone facing hardship,” said Mr Dorney.
To make your return experience stress-free, you can check the live status of machines on the Return and Earn website or the app before heading out to avoid delays.
“We’re excited to see the Murray River region continue to contribute to Return and Earn’s success, and we thank everyone for their ongoing participation,” said Mr. Dorney.
For more information on Return and Earn visit: www.returnandearn.org.au.
Key Facts:
The Murray River region in NSW has helped the Return and Earn, hit a staggering new record recently with over 13 billion bottles, cans and cartons returned through the return point network since the scheme began. This means over $1.3 billion in container refunds have gone back into people’s pockets, helping with the cost of living, saving for a special goal or supporting amazing causes.
Contact details:
Denne Dempsey 0474 313 310
E: media@returnandearn.org.au