Wyndham Vale’s recycling super-siblings, Divit and Diya Nathan, haven’t slowed down since they first hit the headlines for “bottle hunting” in their local parks. Back then, they were just getting started, taking a bag along on family walks and seeing what they could find.
Since then, they’ve kept it up right through autumn and winter. While most people were hurrying home out of the cold, Divit and Diya were still scanning footpaths, gutters and playgrounds for stray bottles and cans. They say they’ve actually noticed more containers on the streets than before – enough to fill a few bags almost every time they go out.
Now that the warmer weather has arrived, their efforts are really paying off. Divit, 13, and Diya, 10, return their haul through Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme (CDS Vic), which pays 10 cents for every eligible drink container. The pair has quietly built up a stash of pocket money they’re planning to put towards summer treats, small outings and maybe a new game or two.
Their parents, Manuja and Reg Nathan, say the whole thing started as a simple family activity.
“We just encouraged them to pick up a few bottles on our walks, and it’s grown from there,” Manuja said. “Now they remind us to bring the bags. We’re really proud they’ve found a way to earn their own spending money and look after the places we all use.”
What began as a bit of fun and some light-hearted sibling competition over who can spot the most containers has become part of the family’s routine and a low-key way to tidy up their local area.
TOMRA Cleanaway CEO, James Dorney, said he’s impressed by the siblings’ efforts and the way they’ve stuck with it.
“Divit and Diya have turned a simple idea into a great little habit,” Mr Dorney said.
“They’re getting out for a walk, picking up containers as they go and earning a bit of extra cash. It’s a small thing, but it adds up, for them and for the environment.”
TOMRA Cleanaway operates refund points for Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme in the West Zone, including 18 across Wyndham. Locals will recognise their bright reverse vending machines and depots in shopping areas and light industrial precincts, making it easy to drop in a bag or two on the way past.
Anyone in Wyndham who wants to try their own “bottle hunt” over the summer holidays can collect empty drink containers at home or while they’re out and about, then cash them in at their nearest CDS Vic refund point.
To find a location and check which containers are eligible, visit https://cdsvic.org.au/locations
