message in a bottle

Yarra Ranges Council has had long standing support of a Container Deposit Scheme (CDS) for beverage containers. In 2008 we first endorsed a policy position to support Container Deposit Legislation.



Peter Cook, one of the key drivers behind
AFROCAB, Australians for Refunds on Cans and
Bottles, sets sail in the SS 10cent deposit boat.

I was delighted to be able to join members of AFROCAB (Australians for refunds on cans and bottles) for their launch of the "SS 10cent deposit" boat at Lake Auravale. The boat made entirely of bottles and cans found in the environment.

Peter Cook has worked tirelessly to raise the profile on this issue. In 2005 he and Marion Cook formed AFROCAB so they could represent the views of Australians who want something done about the growing number of cans and bottles that litter the countryside.


Locals join Peter for the launch of the SS 10cent deposit
boat at Lake AuraVale.
Pictured left to right: Linda Ballis, Lee Fuller,
Cr Samantha Dunn, Peter Cook, Rose Ovenden,
Marion Cook,Graeme Eadie and John Ballis.

It was terrific to join with other passionate locals from the region who came out to join the launch.

A Container Deposit Scheme would bring significant benefits to Yarra Ranges council, particularly in relation to reducing costs in cleaning out street drainage pits, gross pollutant traps and public bins.

There'd also be savings on kerbisde recycling due to the increased value of containers that remain in the bins. There's enormous potential for community fund raising as well as income for individuals.

A CDS would see a greater incentive for recycling by the hospitality industry and at events and festivals. Material would be diverted from landfill and there's the environmental benefits of reduced greenhouse gas emissions and reduced water consumption.

I commend AFROCAB on their commitment and dedication to raising awareness on this issue and look forward to government, either federal or state, just getting on with legislating to enable a container deposits scheme in Victoria. 94% of Victorians support it.

If you'd like to watch the boat launch event, click here.