Confusion over recycling refund points in Tamworth

In an angry spray at the State Government, Labor labelled the Coalition’s rollout of the Container Deposit Scheme as “botched.”

The opposition has called on government leaders to come clean on when Tamworth would receive its own reverse vending machines.

As part of the scheme, to come into effect next month, the price of cans and bottles will rise by  10 cents.

Consumers then return the cans for a 10 cent refund.

Labor MLC for Tamworth, Daniel Mookhey said the New England region has just four confirmed return collection machines.

“The people of Tamworth are still in the dark about where they will be able to take their empty containers for a 10c refund,” he said.

“People are knocking down my door asking for information about returning their containers because they can’t get anything out of this clueless government.

“With one week to go until December 1 and Christmas around the corner, this uncertainty is unacceptable.

“The Tamworth community just wants to know – where can I take my cans and bottles for a refund?”

Mr Anderson labelled Mr Mookhey’s comments as “totally incorrect” and said Tamworth residents would have multiple points to return their cans.

Local businesses were also encouraged to come on board and join in on the collection process.

”There will be collection points in Tamworth,” Mr Anderson told The Leader.

”We are looking at two bulk collection points, one in the south and one in the north – either side of the river.

”We are also looking at over the counter collection points for businesses who want to get involved in the scheme.”

Mr Anderson said he was also speaking to Transcpacific Cleanaway, the collection point roll out contractors, on when the bulk collection facilities would be installed in the area.

It’s expected dates and a location for local reverse vending machines would be announced in the near future.