Caboolture Container Recycling celebrates 200 millionth container returned
If you’ve ever dropped off your bottles and cans at Caboolture Container Recycling, you’ve been part of something truly incredible.
This longtime family-owned depot has just achieved a major milestone - 200 million containers returned through the Containers for Change scheme!
And who had the honour of recycling the 200 millionth container? Narelle Hattink, a 73-year-old local who has been regularly recycling at the depot for nearly seven years.
But she doesn’t do it just for herself, Narelle uses her refunds to support people experiencing homelessness.
On Friday, 13 June, in her impressive 2,086-container haul, Narelle unknowingly returned the milestone container.
To celebrate, Caboolture Container Recycling surprised her with a $1,000 cheque.
"I’ve smashed my windscreens and wasn’t sure how I’d pay for it. I really needed this, I really did”, said Narelle.
A community staple with a big heart
Caboolture Container Recycling has been part of the community for over 50 years, beginning in a garden shed in 1968 as the Caboolture Bottle Exchange.
What started as a scrap metal and glass recycling side hustle by Frank McLoughlin has now grown into a multi-generational operation.
Today, you’ll still find the family at the heart of the business. Co-owner Sara Payne runs the depot alongside her husband Michael, with their sons Cooper and Hayden working the container sorting machines.
Frank’s daughter, Val, still greets regulars with a smile while processing refunds.
And it’s clear this depot is more than just a recycling point - it’s a community hub. Regulars like Narelle bring not just containers, but conversation, care and connection.
“When we joined Containers for Change, we didn’t know just how big this was going to be,” said Sara.
“It’s amazing to see how the community has embraced us.”
“We see Narelle, quite a few times a week - it’s always good to see her pull in. It’s just awesome to see the regulars come back all the time”, Sarah said.
And Narelle had her own words of praise.
“Caboolture Container Recycling have always been good - you come in and they’re always dashing over to grab your bags and help out. They’ve always got a smile, ask how you are and try to remember names”, she said.
Every container counts
Since the Containers for Change scheme launched in 2018, Queenslanders have embraced recycling, returning billions of containers and making sustainability part of everyday life.
Whether you’re saving for something special, fundraising for a cause, or simply doing your bit for the planet - every can and bottle makes a difference.
Caboolture’s 200 million milestone is proof that when a community rallies behind a great initiative, big things happen.
So if you’re in the area, drop by and say hi to the team. Who knows - your next container might be number 250 million!
Ready to make an impact?
Sign up to become a member and start tracking your returns today.