The Macedon Ranges, with its stunning landscapes and diverse ecosystems, is a haven for an incredible array of native wildlife. From the smallest feathered friends to our iconic kangaroos and wombats, these animals are an integral part of what makes our region so special. But life in the wild can be tough, and our local creatures often face challenges that require a helping human hand. Thankfully, dedicated volunteers work tirelessly to protect and care for them, and now, there’s a wonderfully simple way for every single one of us to become a part of their life-saving mission. Imagine turning your everyday drink containers into a lifeline for an animal in need – it’s not just possible, it’s happening right here in the Macedon Ranges!
Meet the Macedon Ranges Wildlife Network: Heroes on Our Doorstep
At the heart of local wildlife conservation is the Macedon Ranges Wildlife Network (MRWN). This remarkable organization is a not-for-profit, volunteer-driven network composed of dedicated rescuers, registered shelters, foster carers, and passionate supporters, all united by their commitment to native wildlife. Their mission is twofold and absolutely vital:
- To provide for the rescue and rehabilitation of native wildlife in the Macedon Ranges Shire and its surrounding areas.
- To offer information and promote community education and awareness about native wildlife and their environmental needs within these districts.
The need for MRWN’s work is truly significant. Astonishingly, the Macedon Ranges Shire accounts for nearly 5% of the total state-wide wildlife rescue case volume. This figure is a staggering 200% higher than the next-highest wildlife rescue region in Victoria. This statistic paints a clear picture of the immense pressure on local wildlife and, consequently, on the volunteers who step up to help. Being an entirely volunteer-run organization means that every bit of support they receive goes directly to where it’s needed most. As MRWN themselves state, “Every donation goes straight to MRWN, and is used in a number of ways. Everything we do is voluntary, so donations are a big way we fund supplies, equipment, food, medicine, etc.”. This transparency ensures that community contributions have a direct and tangible impact on the animals.
The high volume of rescues translates into a constant demand for resources – from specialized food for orphaned joeys and possums, to medical supplies for injured birds, to fuel for rescue vehicles that travel across the shire at all hours. It also places a considerable emotional and time commitment on the volunteers. MRWN’s dedication extends beyond immediate rescue and rehabilitation; their commitment to community education aims to foster a greater understanding and appreciation for native wildlife, addressing the root causes of some issues and promoting harmonious coexistence. This dual approach, tackling both crisis intervention and long-term awareness, positions MRWN as a comprehensive wildlife welfare champion in our community. Their active presence, including participation in local markets , further solidifies their role as an accessible and engaged local organization.
Recycle and Reward: Introducing Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme (CDS Vic)
Many Victorians are now familiar with the Victorian Container Deposit Scheme (CDS Vic), a fantastic initiative that’s changing the way we think about recycling. The premise is simple: for every eligible drink can, carton, glass, or plastic bottle returned to a designated refund point, you receive a 10-cent refund. Most drink containers between 150 millilitres and 3 litres are eligible – just look for the “10c” mark on the label, often near the barcode. Good news for busy recyclers: lids can be kept on, as they are recycled too.
The benefits of CDS Vic are far-reaching. Environmentally, it’s a winner, helping to reduce litter, create cleaner streams of recyclable materials, and give old containers a new life instead of ending up in landfill. But the impact doesn’t stop there. CDS Vic has also become a “game changer” for community fundraising. Charities, local schools, sports clubs, and community groups across Victoria are tapping into this scheme to raise vital funds. The collective power of those 10-cent refunds is proving to be immense. Since its launch on November 1st of the previous year, the scheme has seen over 800 million containers returned across the state. To illustrate the potential, consider Save the Children Australia, who, as a featured Donation Partner, received over $3,000 in just one month through container refunds. This demonstrates the significant financial support that can be generated when a community gets behind a cause.
What makes this scheme particularly powerful is its accessibility. It allows everyone to contribute, turning small, everyday actions into meaningful support. That 10-cent refund might seem minor on its own, but when thousands of community members participate, it quickly adds up to substantial aid for organizations like MRWN. This effectively democratizes fundraising, empowering individuals who may not be in a position to make large one-off donations to still make a significant collective difference. Furthermore, the scheme beautifully intertwines environmental responsibility with community support. When you recycle your containers through CDS Vic and choose to donate your refund, you’re not just tidying up the planet; you’re actively investing in the well-being of your local community and its precious wildlife. The success experienced by other well-known organizations like LandCare Victoria underscores the viability and effectiveness of CDS Vic as a fundraising avenue.
A Powerful Partnership: Macedon Ranges Wildlife Network Joins CDS Vic!
And now for the exciting news! The Macedon Ranges Wildlife Network is an official Donation Partner in the Victorian Container Deposit Scheme! This fantastic development means you can now directly support their crucial animal welfare work simply by recycling your eligible drink containers.
Here are the all-important details you’ll need:
- Donation Partner Name: Macedon Ranges Wildlife Network
- Unique Donation Partner ID: C2000047289
- Category: Animal Welfare
This unique Donation Partner ID is the key to ensuring your refund goes directly to MRWN. When you return your containers, you’ll have the option to donate your refund. Here’s how you can do it:
- At Reverse Vending Machines (RVMs): Simply select the ‘Donate’ option on the screen. You should be able to find Macedon Ranges Wildlife Network in the list of charities, or you can enter their ID: C2000047289.
- Using the CDS Vic North App: If you’re in the North Zone (which includes the Macedon Ranges), you can download the CDS Vic North App. This app allows you to manage your refunds and link them directly to MRWN.
- At Depots or Over-the-Counter (OTC) Sites: When you take your containers to a staffed depot or an OTC collection point, simply inform the staff that you wish to donate your refund to the Macedon Ranges Wildlife Network and provide them with the ID: C2000047289.
Every 10-cent refund donated through these methods will go directly towards helping MRWN provide food, shelter, medication, and transport for injured and orphaned native animals in our region. The availability of multiple donation methods – RVMs for quick convenience, the app for digital ease, and over-the-counter points for those who prefer face-to-face interaction or have larger quantities – makes it easier for everyone to participate in a way that suits them best. This partnership effectively transforms the routine act of recycling into a deliberate and impactful act of support for a beloved local cause, making your efforts more meaningful and targeted towards the animals that share our beautiful Ranges.
Making it Easy: Where to Donate Your Containers in the Macedon Ranges
Knowing where to take your containers is the first step to making a difference. To help you get started, here’s a list of some convenient CDS Vic refund points in key Macedon Ranges towns where you can donate your refunds to the Macedon Ranges Wildlife Network using their ID C2000047289.
Local CDS Vic Refund Points for MRWN Donations
| Town | Location Name | Address | Type (e.g., RVM, Over-the-Counter) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kyneton | Mollisons Fish & Chips | 164 Mollison Street, Kyneton | Over the counter |
| Kyneton | Cellarbrations Kyneton | 63 High Street, Kyneton | Over the counter |
| Woodend | Macedon Ranges Produce Store | 60 Urquhart Street, Woodend | Over the counter |
| Gisborne | Gisborne Village Shopping Centre | 22 Brantome Street, Gisborne | Reverse Vending Machine (RVM) |
| Romsey | Laser Blanks Romsey | 8/8 Mitchell Court, Romsey | Over the counter |
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This list provides a good starting point, and the geographical spread across these towns aims to make participation more convenient for many residents. The mix of Reverse Vending Machines (like the one in Gisborne ) and Over-the-Counter sites caters to different needs – RVMs are great for quick, self-service returns of smaller quantities, while OTC sites, often hosted by local businesses , can be ideal for larger loads or for those who prefer a personal interaction. The involvement of established local businesses also helps to integrate the scheme into the fabric of our community, making it a visible and accessible part of daily life.
To find the most up-to-date and comprehensive list of all refund points across Victoria, or to find locations in other areas, you can:
- Visit the official CDS Vic website: https://cdsvic.org.au/locations
- Use the CDS Vic North App, which often includes a map or locator for refund points.
You’ll encounter various types of refund points, including the self-service RVMs, staffed Depots (excellent for bulk returns), local businesses acting as Over-the-Counter (OTC) collection points, and sometimes Bag Drop services.
Every Container Counts: Your Small Change Makes a Big Difference
It’s easy to think that a single 10-cent piece won’t achieve much, but when it comes to supporting the Macedon Ranges Wildlife Network through CDS Vic, every container truly counts. Each refund donated joins a collective pool of funds that can make a monumental difference to MRWN’s ability to operate and care for our local wildlife.
Imagine what these combined donations can achieve:
- Nourishing food for orphaned joeys who need round-the-clock feeding.
- Life-saving medication for birds with broken wings or animals suffering from illness.
- Fuel for the rescue vehicles that travel countless kilometres to reach animals in distress.
- Essential equipment for the dedicated volunteer carers who provide safe havens and rehabilitation.
The impact of your support ripples outwards. By helping MRWN, you’re not only aiding individual animals in their time of need but also contributing to the overall health and biodiversity of our local ecosystem. Furthermore, you’re supporting MRWN’s vital community education programs, which foster a greater understanding and respect for the creatures we share our environment with. This initiative thrives on sustained, collective action. It’s about making a small, habitual change – consistently choosing to donate those container refunds – that, when adopted by many, creates a powerful and continuous stream of support for MRWN.
So, let this be an encouragement to start collecting your eligible containers today! When you head to a refund point, please remember to use the Macedon Ranges Wildlife Network’s Donation ID: C2000047289. Let’s empower MRWN to continue their incredible work and help our local wildlife not just survive, but thrive.
And why stop there? Spread the word! Share this news with your friends, family, neighbours, local schools, and community groups. Perhaps your workplace could even start a collection for MRWN. By amplifying this message through our community networks, we can significantly increase the support flowing to these dedicated volunteers and the animals they protect. This is a chance for our community to come together, fostering a shared sense of responsibility and care for the unique wildlife of the Macedon Ranges.
Find Out More & Get Involved
If you’re inspired to learn more or want to get further involved with the Macedon Ranges Wildlife Network or the Container Deposit Scheme, here are some useful resources:
Macedon Ranges Wildlife Network (MRWN):
- Website: Visit their official website at macedonrangeswildlifenetwork.com.au for more information about their work, how to become a member, or other ways to support them.
- Facebook Group: Keep up with recent rescues and updates by joining their Facebook group (often searchable on Facebook by their name).
- Direct Donations: While this initiative focuses on CDS Vic, MRWN also accepts direct donations to support their efforts. Bank details are: Name: Macedon Ranges Wildlife Network Inc., BSB: 633-000, Account Number: 158-568-501. Please note, MRWN is not currently registered for tax-deductible donations.
Victorian Container Deposit Scheme (CDS Vic):
- Official Fundraising Page: For more on how charities can benefit, visit https://cdsvic.org.au/fundraising.
- General Information & Locations: Find comprehensive details about the scheme and a full list of refund points at https://cdsvic.org.au.
Together, through simple acts of recycling and donating, we can make a profound difference in the lives of our native animals. Let’s turn our collective small change into a powerful force for good in the Macedon Ranges!
