Paul lives close to Berwick, Victoria. By day, he works full-time, but in his spare time, he’s collecting cans and bottles, making the most of Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme (CDS). He’s part of a running club, and you can bet he never misses an empty bottle during training.

Most weeks, before heading to work, Paul swings by the depot with his collection, turning trash into treasure—literally. And what’s he doing with the cash? Going on holiday! Since the launch of the CDS in November 2023, Paul has already funded nine trips around Australia and Southeast Asia. His latest adventure took him to Bali, and he’s been to Tasmania twice to visit his grandkids.

Paul shares that some people are still unsure about collecting cans and bottles, but for him, it’s more than just the extra income. “I do it to help the environment,” Paul says. “If more people joined in, we’d all have fewer issues with landfill. It’s about doing good for the planet, for us, and for the future we’re leaving behind.”

His message is simple: don’t be shy! Go out there, grab those bottles and cans, and start making a difference. Who knows? You might end up funding your next holiday while helping the Earth breathe a little easier.