If you’ve ever wondered whether returning a few bottles here and there really makes a difference, meet Bruce Ferguson.

At 84 years young, Bruce is a Port Douglas local who’s showing Queenslanders just how powerful one person’s efforts can be. 

Since December 2022, Bruce has returned an incredible 324,000 containers through Containers for Change - adding up to $32,000 in 10-cent refunds for his community.

That’s right. One person. A lot of containers. A huge impact.

Turning bottles and cans into community good

Bruce collects containers to support the Port Douglas Neighbourhood Centre, helping improve facilities and fund local initiatives.
Each week, Bruce heads out on his self-appointed mission armed with his trusty LandCruiser. The back seats are gone, replaced with milk crates - his very own custom container-collecting setup. 

Every Monday morning, local operator Mossman Port Douglas Sharks Recycling helps collect Bruce’s containers, making sure they’re counted, recycled, and turned into funds for good.

“I can’t sit still!”

For Bruce, collecting containers is about more than recycling - it’s about purpose.

“I can’t sit still, I’ve got to be doing something! It does show that if those who are a lot younger than me put in the hours doing what I do, they can earn the same and put it to good use,” Mr Ferguson said.

And he’s right. Those 10-cent refunds really do add up - especially when they’re kept out of landfill and put back into the community.

“It’s about keeping containers out of general waste, so they don’t go to landfill, while putting the container refunds to goodwill that allows the community to be rewarded from it all.”

A local legend 

Bruce’s generosity hasn’t gone unnoticed. Kerrie-Anne Gregory, Manager at Mossman Port Douglas Sharks Recycling, says he’s become a true champion for the scheme in the Douglas Shire.

“Bruce has certainly made a difference with his generosity to the Port Douglas Neighbourhood Centre,” said Ms Gregory.

Imagine if we all chipped in

Bruce’s story is a powerful reminder that recycling doesn’t have to be complicated or boring - and that every container counts. Whether it’s a handful of bottles after a BBQ or a boot full after the weekend, your 10-cent containers can make a real difference.

So next time you’re wondering if it’s worth it, think of Bruce, his LandCruiser full of milk crates, and 324,000 containers saved from landfill.

Ready to make your impact?

Sign up for a member number and start tracking your returns today. 

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