Shellharbour City Council has rolled out new Return and Earn bin baskets across popular beaches, parks and public spaces. The initiative aims to reduce litter and increase recycling across the city.
A Simple Way to Recycle on the Go
Delivered in partnership with the NSW Government, the program helps prevent drink containers from ending up in landfill bins.
The metal baskets attach directly to existing public waste bins. This provides a simple and convenient place for people to leave empty eligible drink containers. In turn, others can collect them and redeem the 10-cent refund through Return and Earn.
Eligible containers include most plastic, glass, aluminium and liquid paperboard drink containers between 150 millilitres and three litres.
Targeting High-Impact Locations
Council has installed the baskets at high-traffic locations, including beaches, playgrounds and lakeside areas. These sites were carefully selected because they generate large volumes of drink containers.
Importantly, many of these areas are close to waterways. As a result, the baskets help reduce the risk of litter entering the natural environment.
How the Bin Baskets Work
The baskets are designed for shared community use.
- Anyone can place eligible containers in the basket
- Anyone can collect containers to redeem for a refund
- Council does not empty the baskets or collect refunds
This system supports recycling while also providing opportunities for individuals, charities and community groups to collect containers.
More Locations Coming Soon
A total of 30 bin baskets will be installed across Shellharbour. So far, 25 have been placed at confirmed high-use locations.
The remaining five baskets will be installed based on community feedback.
Residents are encouraged to visit Council’s Let’s Chat page to:
- View current basket locations on an interactive map
- Suggest new locations by dropping a pin
- Enter a prize draw for a chance to win one of five prize packs
Each prize pack includes a Yeti mug, reusable tote bag, reusable cutlery set, branded stationery and a handball.
Visit Let’s Chat to get involved: Bin There, Pick That! Vote for the Best Basket Spot
Return and Earn Locations in Shellharbour
You can redeem containers at several locations across the area, including:
- Shellharbour Surf Life Saving Club
- Stockland Shellharbour Shopping Centre
- Stockland Retail Park
- BP Albion Park Rail
- Albion Park RSL
- PCYC Lake Illawarra
Find your nearest Return and Earn point here: Return and Earn Map
Small Actions, Big Impact
Return and Earn bin baskets make recycling easier when you’re out and about. At the same time, they help reduce litter and support the local community.
By using the baskets, or collecting containers for refund, residents can play a part in creating a cleaner, more sustainable Shellharbour.
