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Recycle & Rescue: SES Emerald

In the heart of the Dandenong Ranges, the volunteers at Emerald State Emergency Service (SES) are known for answering the call when storms hit, trees fall, and emergencies strike. But lately, they’ve been making headlines for something a little different—bottles and cans. Since November 2023, Emerald SES has been quietly transforming into a community-powered fundraising … Continued

Bottles, Bins, and Big Hearts: Mt Martha Rotary

In the scenic coastal town of Mount Martha, tucked away on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula, a grassroots movement quietly took off in late 2023 – one that would transform bottles and cans into lifelines for those in need. Spearheaded by the Rotary Club of Mount Martha, the initiative tapped into the scheme. The idea was simple: … Continued

10 Cents Saving Victoria’s Wild Places: Bush Heritage Australia

It’s amazing what 10 cents can do. Through the Victorian Container Deposit Scheme (CDS Vic), everyday Victorians are not only keeping litter out of the environment—they’re helping protect some of the state’s most precious ecosystems. And one organisation at the heart of that mission is Bush Heritage Australia. Thanks to funds raised through CDS Vic, … Continued

From Containers to Car Keys: How One Woman is Driving Change in Springvale

In Melbourne’s eastern suburbs, Ana is turning bottles and cans into something far more valuable—a brighter future. Thanks to the Victorian Container Deposit Scheme (CDS Vic), Ana has found a way to earn extra income by collecting eligible drink containers from local parks and her neighbors in Endeavour Hills. With support from her community – … Continued

Rob’s Recycling Mission: From Dealership Bins to Life-Changing Donations

Rob has always been the kind of person who shows up when it counts. A long-time volunteer firefighter, he spent years on the frontlines—raising funds, fighting fires, and helping his community in any way he could. But when he stepped away from the fire brigade and into a new role at Mercedes-Benz in Glen Waverley, … Continued

A New Year, A New Start: How Two Mates Are Turning Bottles Into Hope

When most people were still recovering from New Year’s celebrations, Leigh and Brad were already making moves—big ones. On January 4th, the two friends from Melbourne’s east set out on a mission that was part necessity, part hope, and entirely life-changing. Their first trip to the Oakleigh depot brought in just $11.50. It wasn’t much, … Continued

Cash for Cans: Mulgrave Locals Clean Up and Give Back

Cans, Cats and Consoles: Mulgrave Locals Turn Trash into Treasure At the Mulgrave recycling depot, something remarkable is happening. What might seem like an ordinary place to drop off bottles and cans has become the heart of a small but powerful movement — one fuelled by community spirit, big dreams, and even a few rescued … Continued

How Is a Local Kindergarten Turning Cans Into Compost and Cash?

A local kindergarten is taking big steps towards a greener future with their ‘Collect a Can for Compost’ project! The Junior Kinder program has launched an exciting fundraising effort to raise $294. Their goal is to install a compost bin and worm farm right in their yard, giving their sustainability curriculum a fantastic boost.  The … Continued