Binning the profits

A twelve-month trial encouraging the recycling of 10 cent refundable containers will not only provide a boost to local community groups but also contribute to a more sustainable Barossa.

The Barossa Council has installed three specially marked bins for the recyclable containers, two at Mount Pleasant with proceeds going to the town’s Men’s Shed, and another at Lyndoch, with funds funnelled back into the community via the Lyndoch Community Committee - a member of the Southern Barossa Alliance.

Mayor Bim Lange said the trial is a result of Council listening to the community’s call to implement initiatives that increase recycling in public spaces.

“At the end of this trial, we’ll determine if there is a case to extend it and develop a framework to engage with other community groups and potentially increase the number of bin locations.”

For Mount Pleasant Men’s Shed President, Murray Henderson, the partnership is a win for both the community and environment.

“I got in touch with Council because there was a bin here but it used to overflow,” he said, describing the popularity of the prime main street location in front of the bakery.

“They said we could get one that we could empty, and so we are going to do that every Friday.”

Members are looking forward to seeing how much the Mount Pleasant Men’s Shed will make from the trial which runs until October next year.

“It gives us a chance to earn some money because we just run on donations,” added Murray.

“It’s also a great way to recycle.”Proceeds from the 10 cent bottles collected will help fund projects undertaken by members.

“It will go towards buying wood for the children’s woodworking classes that we run free of charge for Mount Pleasant Primary School,” explained Murray.

“It will also help the women’s woodworking classes that are held on the first Wednesday of every month and go towards some of the tools we have to buy to keep things going.”