Ballan reverse vending machine open for refunds

BALLAN residents can now get cash back for their containers and bottles with the introduction of the town’s first reverse vending machine.

State Member for Eureka Michaela Settle opened the machine at Crossroads Trading on Old Melbourne Road last week.

The State Government’s container deposit scheme allows Victorians to claim a 10-cent refund for every eligible container deposited. Ballan’s automated kiosk will be managed by TOMRA Cleanaway.

Crossroads Trading manager David Agius said the local business was excited to have the reverse vending machine on site.

“The minute it was open people were here putting it to good use,” he said.

“It’s good for the community, brings people to the shop and it’s good for the environment.”

Ms Settle said recycling kiosks supported goals to 80 per cent of waste from landfill by 2030.

“It’s important to keep cans, bottles and cartons out of the landfill and recycle them instead because our environment isn’t just for us to enjoy, but our future generations as well,” she said.

“I was glad to see that Ballan was getting a reverse vending machine because, alongside its environmental benefits, it also gives back to charities and puts money in the pockets of locals.”

By August, more than 600 refund points will be active across the state. It’s estimated Victorians use more than three billion drink containers every year.

Drinking containers eligible for refund must be larger than 150 mililitres and smaller than three litres.

Containers must be made of aluminium, plastic, steel or liquid paperboard.

Other collection points in Moorabool Shire include the Foodworks Carpark in Gell Street, Bacchus Marsh and Wilsons Mitre 10 at 1 South Maddingley Road, Maddingley. Containers should be kept intact and undamaged, as the vending machines need to accurately scan the label, shape, and barcode to process a refund.