Recycle Rewards has marked another major milestone, recording its biggest ever weekend with Tasmanians returning more than 1 million eligible drink containers across the state.

This record-breaking weekend highlights Tasmania’s growing commitment to recycling, reducing litter and keeping valuable materials in circulation. The surge in returns was seen across refund points, demonstrating widespread community participation.

Tasmanians returned an impressive 528,646 eligible drink containers on Saturday 20 December and another 510,860 on Sunday 21 December.

The total number of eligible drink containers returned since Recycle Rewards began on 1 May has now surpassed 65 million.

TasRecycle CEO Ken Roughley said, “Tasmanians have once again shown their passion for protecting our environment. This is a powerful reminder of what we can achieve when the community works together.”

“Twice as many eligible drink containers are supplied into Tasmania for summer, so it’s great to see Tasmanians taking action to capture all those empties and return them to a refund point. An extra bag in the back of the car, caravan or boat is all it takes to help reduce litter and landfill – and you get 10 cents for every eligible container returned.”

The top-performing refund points on the weekend were:

  • Cove Hill, Bridgewater – 54,000 eligible drink containers returned
  • Woolworths Devonport – 51,500 eligible drink containers returned
  • Goodwood Depot, Hobart – 45,000 eligible drink containers returned

The Recycle Rewards network of refund points and the dedicated staff behind them have gone above and beyond during this busy period. With convenient locations across the state accessibility means that returning containers can fit seamlessly into everyday routines, helping more people contribute to a cleaner environment and support local charities.

Corey Wingard, GM Tasmania for network operator TOMRA Cleanaway, celebrated the staff behind the network of Recycle Rewards refund points. “Their commitment ensures that every customer has a smooth experience returning containers. This effort keeps the scheme running efficiently and delivering real benefits to the community and the environment – including this incredible volume milestone.”

Recycle Rewards donations partners, including charities, schools and community groups, also benefitted. To date, Tasmanians have generously donated more than $170,000by returning their eligible drink containers to Recycle Rewards refund points since 1 May 2025. 

To find your nearest refund point, visit www.recyclerewards.com.au or download the Recycle Rewards app from your preferred app store.