Bega residents are understandably scratching their heads after the sudden and unannounced removal of the container recycling facility from Sapphire Marketplace.
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The Return and Earn Container Deposit Scheme has proven incredibly popular since its arrival in Bega in late 2017.
Bega Valley Shire residents are enthusiastic participants in Return and Earn having returned more than 33.9million drink containers for recycling since the scheme launched in December 2017, helping both the local environment and the local community.
However, network operator TOMRA Cleanaway said owner of the Sapphire Marketplace Woolworths opted to end its contract as host of the machine.
A Woolworths spokesperson confirmed to the BDN that the removal was permanent.
"A safety audit deemed that the machine was unsafe to be used by members of the public in its current position, and no other area at the site was suitable for its relocation," Woolworths said.
"We apologise for the inconvenience caused and thank the local community for their understanding of this decision."
Meanwhile, TOMRA Cleanaway said it was in discussions with Bega Valley Shire Council to identify a new suitable alternate location in the local area.
In the meantime, the nearest Return and Earn machines for Bega residents to return containers are at the Woolworths complexes in Tura Beach and Bermagui.
TOMRA Cleanaway said Return and Earn was an increasingly important fundraising avenue for charities and local community groups.
Anyone using the Tura Beach reverse vending machine can opt to donate their container refund to the current local donation partner Farm on the Green, or if using the Bermagui RVM, can donate their refund to Marine Rescue Bermagui with the money going towards fuel and maintenance of its rescue vessel.
For more information about Return and Earn, visit www.returnandearn.org.au.
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