The Upper Lachlan Shire was one of last places in the state to get access to to a RVM after the initiative was introduced by the NSW Government in December 2017.

Government figures showed that drink container litter is equal to near 44 per cent of all litter across NSW. The scheme hoped to reduce this volume by 40 per cent in the next two years, Floyd Davies, IGA Crookwell said.

“It’s been 12 months in the making but finally its here and its up and working,” Mr Davies said. 

Prior to the installation in Crookwell the closest drink container recycling stations were in Goulburn or Yass, Mr Davies said. 

It filled up by 1pm on Sunday, Mr Davies said.

The RVM will operate between 8am and 6pm every day and it is expected to service the entire district. It  would accept up to 500 containers in any one transaction, Mr Davies said.

Drink containers are automatically scanned and a receipt is issued after the transaction has been completed.

This receipt can be taken into the IGA and cash or an instore voucher would be issued, Mr Davies said.

Each eligible container would allow for a 10 cent refund.

The scheme provided a great opportunity for community and charity groups to receive donations from ULS residents.

In 2019, registered not-for-profit local charities and community groups can apply to become a donation partner for a three month period, Mr Davies said.