Belgravia Foundation celebrates the 10 millionth container collected at Whitlam Leisure Centre

The Return and Earn Machine at Whitlam Leisure Centre in Liverpool has achieved a massive milestone with the collection of its 10 millionth container, saving 600,000 kilograms of waste previously destined for landfill.

In just three and a half years, the scheme’s container collections have collected and recycled enough waste to fill 63 garbage trucks and raised funds for local community programs. 

“The environmental impact of the Return and Earn program at Whitlam Leisure Centre is outstanding, and has resulted in savings in water use, greenhouse gas emissions, energy and waste to landfill savings,” said Belgravia Leisure’s Group Manager, Alexia Morgan.

“In fact, this milestone has avoided 1.206 million carbon emissions which is equivalent to taking 446 cars off the road for a year.”

Liverpool City Council Mayor Ned Mannoun said that he was impressed at the 10 million milestone and equally pleased funds were being channelled to under-represented local groups.

“It’s a win-win all around. We help the environment, and we help locals. I love it,” Mayor Mannoun said.

“The biggest congratulations go to everyone in our community for their efforts in bringing these containers to the Whitlam Centre for recycling. It’s fantastic that our community is proving that Liverpool locals care about our environment.” 

The scheme has seen locals deposit a whopping 335,000 containers every month, with the option to collect a refund of 10 cents per container or to donate the 10 cents to a nominated charity, school, sporting club or community.” 

A steering committee comprising of representatives from Belgravia Foundation, Belgravia Leisure and the City of Liverpool, work with the community to identify how the funds are dispersed. Mayor Mannoun said that to date, $50,000 has been raised supporting over 1,030 people including:

  • An after-school care program for disadvantaged youth

  • A Gandangara Marumali Learn to Swim program for First Nations youth

  • A breakfast and FIT program for people experiencing disadvantage

  • A social pickleball program for seniors and youth

  • A refugee / CALD mums and bubs program

  • An after-school Learn to Swim program for the CALD community, First Nations and low-income families

  • An Afghan Women on the Move Learn to Swim program

  • A recreation and sports day for CALD youth

  • A Gandangara Family Appreciation Day for First Nations peoples

  • Capoeira (Afro-Brazillian inspired) marital arts for adults and children

  • Youth community hubs

The Whitlam Leisure Centre is partnering with TOMRA, technology partner for Return and Earn on-site. James Dorney, CEO of TOMRA Cleanaway network operator for Return and Earn and operator for CDS Vic West Zone also applauded the milestone.

“Achievements like this milestone can only occur through collaboration to deliver a vision. Belgravia Foundation and Belgravia Leisure’s support of Return and Earn is a shining example of how container deposit schemes can be harnessed to deliver positive, environmental, economic, and social outcomes.”

Emma Lowe