A Melbourne woman has turned her passion for recycling into a lucrative side hustle, earning over $5,000 in less than two years. Amy McDermott, a delivery driver, has taken to the streets to collect discarded drink containers as part of Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme. What began as a response to litter has evolved into an enjoyable pursuit that not only combats boredom but also contributes to environmental sustainability.
McDermott, who is frequently on the road, noticed empty beer cans, Coke bottles, and flavored milk cartons littering the landscape. Frustrated by the sight of rubbish, she began to gather these items during her deliveries. The experience has transformed into what she describes as an “addiction,” with the added thrill of earning money through recycling. “I fully think it’s a bit of an addiction now,” she told Yahoo News Australia.
Her commitment extends beyond her driving route. While paddleboarding in Frankston, located in Melbourne’s southeast, she also collects bottles floating in the water. McDermott has built a supportive network among friends, family, and colleagues who share her enthusiasm for recycling. “Because I deliver car parts to mechanics, and I’m a big mouth, I advertise the crap out of what I do,” she explained. “If I see cans, I’ll ask, Why are you doing that? Give them to me.”
The significance of McDermott’s efforts is underscored by the success of Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme, which launched in 2023. Since its inception, approximately 2.3 billion drink containers have been returned, collectively earning residents $2.3 million. Under the scheme, residents receive 10 cents for each eligible container returned. These recyclable materials are then processed into new products—aluminium cans and glass bottles are remade into their original forms, while plastics are sorted and transformed into new items.
As McDermott enjoys her newfound income, she has used her earnings to fund various leisure activities. For her 50th birthday, she spent $900 on hiring a mechanical bull. Her adventures have also taken her on holidays to the United States and Western Australia, and she has paid $400 to go skydiving. Additionally, she contributed $300 to her workplace’s Christmas party and has directed some funds towards charitable causes.
Her friends have affectionately dubbed her “Bin Chicken,” a term used in Australia for the ibis known for scavenging in urban areas. Despite the playful nickname, McDermott takes pride in her contribution to cleaning up her community. “If I’m speaking to one of my friends and see a can in the gutter or something, I’m just like, hang on a sec, I’ve just got to get this can,” she shared.
McDermott’s story not only showcases the potential for individuals to earn extra income through recycling but also highlights the importance of community involvement in environmental efforts. Her experience serves as an inspiration for others looking to make a positive impact while having fun.
