The machine is being built just outside supermarket Foodworks. 

A NSW Government tax increased the price of bottled drinks by 13 to 15 cents in November last year. The trade-off was supposed to begin on December 1, when residents were supposed to be able to get 10 cents back for each bottle deposited at designated collection points. 

But while the NSW Government looked after bigger cities, like Sydney and Wagga, Griffith was left without any collection points, meaning we had to pay more for our drinks without the opportunity to get cash back. 

In December, Wagga residents made $61,000 through the recycling scheme. 

Ross Catanzariti, manager at Foodworks, is happy the scheme is finally up in Griffith. 

“It was confusing for our customers last month. They were wondering why our drinks had gone up in price, but there was nowhere to hand in their bottles”. 

The closest collection point for Griffith was Woolworths Leeton. 

A reverse vending machine is currently being installed in the car park behind Foodworks, opposite Griffith City Council. 

Mr Catanzariti said he expects it will be operational within a week. 

The machine will enable you to receive 10 cents for each bottle deposited, or donate it to a charity. The money can be deposited through pay pal, or you can get a voucher redeemable at Foodworks. The machine does not dispense cash. 

“Don't forget about the voucher in your pocket and put it in the wash. It’s like cash,” Mr Catanzariti said. 

You also have to make sure your bottles are not crushed or damaged, so the barcode can be read. 

Though not part of the scheme, Danny’s Store has been cashing in bottles for customers who make a purchase at their store. 

Farmer Helen Dalton, a recent candidate at the Murray state by-election, supports the scheme concept but is critical of the way it’s been implemented. 

“The scheme has been poorly thought out and implemented but I've supported and have agitated for a container reimbursement scheme for many years. It creates an awareness and culture that rubbish has a value and we should be collecting, cashing in and keeping Australia beautiful”. 

“Again we see Griffith being sideline and neglected… the price of drinks bottles and cans has increased and without the collection points, we are being financially disadvantaged.”

A second collection point will be set up in North Griffith in the coming weeks. 

Sydney has been provided with 211 collection points.

For information on the scheme, call 1800 290 691 or visit the return and earn website.