Cashing in on canny haul

The State Government’s Containers for Change program launched last Thursday with locals already eager to cash in their eligible containers at Care for Hedland’s Wedgefield depot.

The Wedgefield facility is just one of 200 refund points across WA to take part in the scheme.

Up to half the refund points will be in regional Western Australia with another 29 expected to be opened by end of the scheme’s first year.

It is expected to create over 600 local jobs, particularity for people living with disability, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People and the long-term unemployed.

The depot was officially opened by the Member for Pilbara Kevin Michel following months of preparations by CEO Kelly Howlett and her team of volunteers.

Mr Michel thanked Care for Hedland for jumping on board the initiative which aims to tackle the State’s litter problem.

“It’s a great scheme and I want to thank their (Care for Hedland’s) wonderful work in regards to keeping the environment clean,” he said. “This is a great initiative for Hedland and the (wider) community”.

The scheme will allow West Australians to return eligible drink containers for a 10 cent refund at their nearest refund point.

Local Jane Hassan and her two children Mitchell, 12 and Ella, 10 woke bright and early to be the first customers at Hedland’s Moorambine Street processing hub.

It was a successful morning for the family who cashed in a total of $97.20.

The scheme will also provide an opportunity for people to give back to community organisations and charities to fundraise.

Care for Hedland will nominate a group each month for locals to donate money to from their cashed in containers.

The Port Hedland Girl Guides was the charity of choice for October with the group hoping to raise funds for equipment and materials.