Scouts on the hunt for recyclables

SCOUTS across Victoria are stepping up their search for recyclable containers following the launch of a new competition under the State Government’s Container Deposit Scheme (CDS).

Environment Minister Steve Dimopoulos launched the competition earlier this month in Mount Waverley. It will run until the end of November.

It is designed to help scouts get even more involved in the CDS while raising money and learning about recycling, community engagement and financial literacy.

Mr Dimopoulos said as one of the largest youth development organisations in the satate, scouts are well placed to support young people’s participation in the recycling scheme.

He said scouts would receive a specially designed ‘Container Champion’ badge to acknowledge their efforts.

“Across the state, scouts are already playing a key role in the scheme by running 12 refund collection points,” Mr Dimopoulos said.

“The scout-run sites have processed more than 13 million containers since the scheme commenced on 1 November last year and this number is set to grow in the coming months as part of this new competition.”

Scout groups have a chance to win Anaconda vouchers valued at up to $2500 as well as more than $2500 to attend the Australian Jamboree 2025 in Maryborough, Queensland.

“Victorians use more than three billion drink containers each year and I’m excited that our scouts will be rewarded and recognised for collecting and returning as many as possible through the Container Deposit Scheme,” Mr Dimopoulos said.

Scouts Victoria Chief Commissioner Rod Byrnes said scouts had always been passionate about making a difference in their communities.

“This competition not only rewards their efforts but also empowers young people to take responsibility for the environment while having fun and raising funds for their groups,” Mr Byrnes said.

The three scout groups that collect the most containers will win the Anaconda vouchers.

Under the ‘Jamboree Champions’ section, the three individual scouts who return the most containers will win fully funded travel and attendance at the national jamboree.