Located in the carpark of the Crookwell IGA, the manual container holds up to 20,000 bottles and will begin operations this Friday. 

Just over 20 parking spaces will now be available as the one-month trial for the automatic Return and Earn machines begin.

A number of local community groups have pledged their participation in the scheme, including Upper Lachlan Shire councillors and IGA staff. The Crookwell Lion’s Club, St Vincent de Paul and the Men’s Shed have all expressed interest in volunteering their time.

There will be a 200-bottle and can maximum per visit. Goods must be empty, uncrushed, unbroken and have the original label attached – including the bar code.

Residents will receive a ticket after the recycled goods are collected, and have the choice to redeem it for cash in IGA or use it in the store.

Store co-owner Floyd Davies said this service was for the entire Upper Lachlan and hoped everyone was on board for the initiative. 

“We want a cross-section of charities to man the scheme. We don’t want it to be the same people all the time,” Mr Davies said. 

“The biggest take-away is that it’s a trial period. After a month we won’t be able to continue if there isn’t enough support. 

“Our aim is to show TOMRA-Cleanaway and the government that it’s needed.”

He thanked the Upper Lachlan Shire Council for its support and donation of bins to reduce litter around the site. 

If the automatic machine is approved for the Shire, the machine will be located at another site. Shortlisted sites include the Golf Club and Todkill Park. 

He said this proposed recycling scheme will go hand in hand with the removal of plastic bags on July 1, and that this was the first stage of the businesses proactive stance on recycling in the region. 

The manual recycling opening hours are: Friday 12pm-5pm, Saturday 10am-3pm, Sunday 10am-3pm. The scheme will be operational for 12 days in total.

Charities/school groups/local community groups will make 3.5c per can for their group including any donations of cans on the day.