Torquay Food Aid joins Container Deposit Scheme

TORQUAY Food Aid has joined the roster of registered charities benefiting from Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme.

Launched in November, the CDS offers a 10-cent refund for each recycled can, carton, or bottle.

Participants in the scheme can choose to either keep this refund or donate it to a listed charity, organisation, or community group.

President of Torquay Food Aid, Michael Buckley said supporters could find details on how to contribute to the organisation through the CDS Vic West app or by visiting the scheme’s sites.

“People can take their cans and small glass bottles that are clearly labelled for the rebate to any of the collection centres.

“It’s also a great way for people to support us who can’t donate food or money and recycle at the same time.”

Since its inception in 1994, Torquay Food Aid has been serving the Torquay community.

Every Wednesday, the charity provides its clients with essential pantry items, including milk, bread, fruits, and vegetables, sufficient for a week.

“We are in need of cleaning products, laundry products, and detergents at the moment,” Mr. Buckley said.

People can drop them into the box at IGA or Woolies North Torquay, or visit Torquay Food Aid during opening hours.

“With the cost-of-living crisis, we are seeing more and more people from the Geelong area.”

Mr. Buckley said those needing to access the service don’t need to register.

“Just come on a Wednesday afternoon between 12 noon and 3pm.”

Victoria boasts hundreds of refund points for the CDS, with plans to expand to 600 locations by August.

In Torquay, refund points are available at Bells Beach Brewery, Shed 2, 22 Baines Crescent; and at Dunes Village, 222 Fischer Street, Torquay North.

Other refund points on the Surf Coast include Surf Coast Tree Services at 17 Inverlochy Street, Anglesea; the Aireys Inlet Pub at 5 Great Ocean Road, Aireys Inlet; and Lorne FoodWorks at 1-3 Great Ocean Road, Lorne