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, but it was enough for breakfast—and a fresh sense of purpose. “It wasn’t about the money,” Brad said. “It was about doing something that mattered.”
As the weeks rolled on, their efforts expanded. They combed streets, scouted laneways, and got to know the rhythms of different neighborhoods. Clayton soon became their jackpot suburb, and one unforgettable night, they hauled in an incredible $310 worth of bottles and cans—an achievement they still talk about with pride.
But behind the numbers is a deeper story.
Leigh is currently homeless. For him, this journey began as a way to survive. “I started looking for ways to make a few dollars,” he said, “but it became about friendship.” The bond between the two mates, strengthened by shared wins and daily grind, has been the real reward.
Every week, they celebrate whatever they’ve earned. It’s not just about the cash—it’s about having something to work towards, something to be proud of. “I may be living under a bridge,” Leigh says, “but I feel rich in many ways.”
Thanks to the Victorian container deposit scheme, Leigh and Brad have found more than just income—they’ve found dignity, community, and a renewed sense of purpose. At the Oakleigh depot, they’re known by name. Staff greet them with smiles. There's no judgment—only encouragement.
And that matters. Because this isn’t just about recycling bottles. It’s about recycling lives.
Leigh and Brad are proof that with a little help—and a lot of heart—even discarded containers can fuel transformation. They’re not just cleaning up the streets. They’re building something better. One bottle at a time.