One of the glass collection points has the screen smashed, the panel surrounding the screen removed and a hole smashed in the plastic to reveal the area where refund vouchers were printed.

The other had also had the panel taken but was still operating.

The two points for plastic, cartons and cans appeared undamaged and were operating as normal.

TOMRA-Cleanaway was understood to be aware of the issue and on Thursday morning security cameras were being installed inside and outside the facility.

There had been no security cameras operating at the site since it was installed in December but the vandalism led to the cameras being placed.

Gilgandra resident Karen Lamb has decided to drop off some containers during a visit to Dubbo and said she was disgusted with those who had damaged the machines.

“It’s a shame that vandals have done that. It’s an inconvenience to people who are trying to drop off their bottles and cans.

“I come in from Gilgandra because we don’t have one there. I don’t make a special trip but I bring them in when I come to Dubbo so if the machine isn’t working, I have to take them back.”

Vicki Gainsford said she didn’t know what the vandals were hoping to achieve but echoed the sentiments about it causing problems for those using the vending machines.

It is understood there were no security cameras prior to those being installed on Thursday but the area where the machines are located can now be seen clearly to catch anyone who damages them.

Dubbo received its first machine in late December, and a second was installed in early January.

A third machine has been earmarked for the city by Dubbo Regional Council but has not been confirmed or a location revealed.

The Daily Liberal is unaware of any previous vandalism to the facilities.

Tomra-Cleanaway was approached for comment and to find out when the machines would be fixed but didn’t respond by deadline.