Sutherland Shire shops have joined the mass exodus of retailers from the state government’s 10 cents container deposit scheme.
And, an Oatley shop, which had stood out in the St George district for its commitment to the cans and bottles refund scheme, has also bailed out.
Of six designated shire retailers contacted on Monday, only Bonnet Bay Supermarket and Liquor Store was accepting cans and bottles for recycling.
Manager Sandy Kaur said the scheme was operating smoothly, although some people were disappointed when they brought in items that were ineligible.
”We have filled four yellow recycling bins, and the customers are happy,” she said.
Ms Kaur said customers had told them other shops, listed by the Environment Protection Authority for over-the-counter refunds, had dropped out.
Well-known Steve and Effies Takeaway, on Captain Cook Drive, Kurnell, quickly withdrew from the recycling scheme.
Owner Perry Savidis said, based on what he had seen on TV, he thought he was going to be supplied with a reverse vending machine, to be placed outside his shop.
“But, what it turned out to be was a recycling bin and we had to make sure cans were not crushed,” he said.
Mr Savidis took responsibility for the misunderstanding, and said he would be happy to have a reverse vending machine when they became available.
“We have been told that will be the first half of next year,” he said.
Another designated collection point, Mr Paisley’s Cafe at Caringbah, advised on Facebook it was not participating “at this stage”.
”We certainly wanted to be part of this program, but when we realised how much work was involved we decided against it at this stage,” the cafe said.
“As all our loyal customers know we are extremely busy and we can’t possibly take this on as well.
“Hopefully when they put out machines we would love one on our premises.”
The owner of Little Feet Cafe at Engadine can’t understand why they were listed as a collection point in the first place.
“They never asked me,” he said.
AdventureCo, at Oatley, which is involved in other recycling initiatives, stood out last week with its commitment to the Return and Earn scheme despite other St George retailers dropping out.
However, the shop finally took the same course of action.
“We believe in giving everything a good go, especially when it comes to supporting our community and environment,” a Facebook post said.
“Unfortunately, after a good go, we will no longer be a drop off outlet for the Return & Earn program, as of today. With too many other businesses also dropping out, we are receiving and processing over 1000 bottles a day.
“This takes us away from our core purpose of providing excellent service to our customers, providing a safe and healthy environment for our team and devoting time to our many other important community initiatives.
“We wish the program success, and will continue to update you on alternative drop off points.
“We have loved seeing your devotion to our environment and look forward to continue to support it with passion in other ways!
“We appreciate your understanding.”
