Graham Rose every three months swaps 2500 empty bottles and cans for $250 at his local Containers for Change depot.
This month, he exchanged the Browns Plains depot’s 100 millionth container.
It’s a milestone that took less than five years, or over 60,000 cans and bottles a day, to achieve.
Mr Rose, an avid fisherman from Crestmead, said he took part in Containers for Change because it “helps clean up Australia and puts a bit of extra cash in your pocket”.
“I usually use the money for food, to put petrol in the car and go fishing. I’m actually getting the windows in my car tinted this time,” he said.
Andrew Lambert and Julie Farrelly opened Browns Plains Bottles and Cans in October 2020.
Mr Lambert said they survived the chaos of Covid 19 during their early days, transforming the depot into the 20-strong business it is now.
Now, hundreds of cars pass through the depot every day, returning between 500,000 to 700,000 containers every week.
“We know what’s important to our customers, which is why we’ve set up the depot so vehicles can get through easily and quickly,” Mr Lambert said.
“Our customers love that they can sit in their car while our staff unload the containers straight from the boot and count them on the spot.
“Our staff are some of the fastest container counters around and customers know they don’t have to wait long for their refund.”
Natalie Roach, CEO of the not-for-profit running Containers for Change, Container Exchange, congratulated team at Browns Plains for achieving the 100 million milestone.
“Andrew and Julie are community leaders who have created a business that truly captures what it means to be part of Containers for Change,” Ms Roach said.
“Not only do they provide an opportunity for people to return their containers, but they have forged strong relationships with their customers and supported many local causes over past four years.
“Their commitment to recycling has kept 100 million containers out of landfill, and put $10 million back into the pockets of individuals, community groups and charities.”
