Hot on the heels of Thursday's new Return and Earn machine at Southern Cross University, Nimbin is being considered for a Return and Earn, thanks to the actions of a nearby resident, Sarah-Jane McGrath.

Looking at the region, there is quite a large area between recycling facilities, and Sarah-Jane, a recent resident of Mount Burrell, thought it was a good idea to do something about it.

(The map of the closest Return and Earn facilities)

“Casino, Kyogle and Lismore are the closest. Then it's Condong, which is just on the other side of Murwillumbah, so I asked, where the hell's ours? All the roads lead to Nimbin - we should have one here.”)

Sarah-Jane feels strongly about the ability for everyone to be more responsible for the waste they produce. Sarah-Jane is also aware of the financial incentive that is not available to her neighbours.

“If you put it in the bin, it goes to council. They're the ones who make money. We should be able to claim the money."

After talking to residents earlier in the year and learning how to get action, she posted on Facebook explaining what to do. That was on June 22nd.

On Monday, July 1st, Sarah-Jane was told by Return and Earn that they were starting the process to look into her appeal.

“It seems they are seriously considering our requests, which is very exciting,” says Sarah-Jane, “ I don't know how many people have sent their stories through emails, rung up, whatever, but everyone was completely positive about it.

“I think people should continue to get on board and let them know that this is a really great thing, not only for Nimbin but for surrounding areas. Cawongla, Wadeville, Mount Burrell, Kunghur, Coffee Camp, maybe as far as Uki, depending on where you're going.’

(Sarah-Jane showed people how to write up their "recycling story")

To add your voice to the campaign, you can calculate your use and how much impact you would make HERE 

You can share your story on your story and how you feel about a service in Nimbin HERE

Email them at [email protected] or call 1800 290 691 and talk to them about what is important for you.

For more developments, keep an eye on Sarah-Janes posts on community forums.