The machine has been installed as part of the NSW government’s Container Deposit Scheme. It’s designed to cut litter across the state by 40 per cent by 2020.

The reverse vending machine was installed near the skate park as it is a hot spot for litter. Dubbo Regional Council spends $5000 per year removing litter from the area.

However, council’s environmental control officer Debbie Archer said people had been leaving containers that weren’t accepted by the machine around the site.

“Council are having some trouble with litter issues at the moment, people are leaving boxes and rubbish on the site so we’re suggesting to use reusable containers that you can take back home, and ineligible containers such as milk bottles, you can take those back home as well,” Ms Archer said.

“Take them home and put them in kerbside recycling. Just because they’re not accepted here doesn’t mean they’re not accepted at kerbside recycling. The aim of this is all about reducing litter.”

The machine has already proved popular. Another reverse vending machine is already scheduled to be installed in west Dubbo.

People have also been travelling from areas such as Narromine and Gilgandra to use the machine, council’s director community and recreation Murray Wood said.

“We’re trying to get [the NSW government] to understand that not only are people from outside of Dubbo to do their shopping, they’re also coming to deposit their containers,” Mr Wood said.

There have been complaint about the machine filling up quickly, however Ms Archer said she hoped the problems would be sorted out in the coming weeks.

“As they work out how much use the system is getting the teething issues of it being full will hopefully be worked out. So far the community are really in support of it. It’s a great spot for them to be able to bring their containers back,” she said.

“Other local businesses that are interested in having a machine or a collection point can contact TOMRA Cleanaway.”

Ms Archer said the the Return and Earn facility was a great spot to get rid of recyclable containers while also getting a little bit of cash back.

“Through the machines are all your normal, single-use drink containers such as cans, bottles, beer bottles can all go through the system. The ineligible containers are the ones you normally use at home some as the milk bottles and wine bottles,” she said.

To report any faults with the reverse vending machine contact TOMRA Cleanway on 1800 290 691.

Those who show they’re environmentally conscience while using the Return and Earn reverse vending machine may soon be eligible for a reward.

Dubbo Regional Council is hoping to stop littering at the site.

Council’s director community and recreation Murray Wood said by being prepared and only bringing the items which could be returned to the reverse vending machine, the area would be kept litter free.

“The RVM is not a general waste or recycling drop off location and we are encouraging users to do the right thing, be prepared if they want to use the RVM and to help keep the area clean and litter free,” Mr Wood.

A competition will soon be held to enforce the litter-free message.

Council is asking for video submissions from the public showing the reusable containers they’re bringing to the RVM for the chance to win a $50 myDubbo gift card.

Details will be available on the Dubbo Sustainable City Facebook page.