CAN Collect Wonthaggi has made it into the big three for Can Collect depots across Gippsland collecting eight million containers since it opened eight months ago.

Zone Operator for Can Collect in Wonthaggi and Phillip Island former Essendon and Gippsland Power footballer Will Hams says Wonthaggi is now the third biggest collection site in the region.

“We’ve returned $800,000 back to the local community,” said the tough mid-fielder noting that they “see all types” returning containers.

“Sporting clubs returning containers from weekend matches.

“Kids saving for a PlayStation, or a new bike helped by grandparents”.

Can Collect accept aluminium cans, glass bottles, plastics and liquid paperboard.

“We take damaged containers as long as they are legible,” said Hams.

“We don’t take wine bottles, milk bottles or Tetra Paks.”

People enjoy the experience according to Wonthaggi Depot Manager Michael Imlach.

“It is a lot cleaner than you would expect and a lot quieter,” said Imlach.

Cash is provided on site while the returned containers are sorted into bigger bins.

“We accept commercial loads as well,” added Hams.

Can Collect Wonthaggi can be found at 36 Inverloch Road in the service lane of the Eastern Industrial Estate and is open seven days a week from 8.30am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday and 10am to 2pm weekends.

The Cowes depot can be found at 14 Harvey Drive and is also open seven days a week.

Free bins can be collected from either depot for special events.