A grassroots recycling effort that began with a few aluminium cans and car batteries has grown into a decades-long community initiative on King Island - now supported by a five-year partnership between the Lions Club of King Island and TasPorts.
Posted
19 September 2025
The Lions Club has led this community-driven environmental initiative since the early 1990s, collecting used batteries and aluminium cans for recycling, though shipments of cans have been heading offshore since the 1970s. With ongoing support from local partners and residents, the Club ships a container of recyclables to mainland Tasmania each year, with funds raised reinvested into local community projects.
Thanks to a newly formalised partnership with TasPorts, the program is now on even stronger footing. TasPorts' sponsorship covers the cost of shipping the container, helping ensure the initiative remains both financially sustainable and environmentally impactful.
“Backing the Lions Club was a natural fit,” said Susan McLeod, TasPorts Manager Environment and Sustainability. “We’re part of this community, and this initiative delivers real outcomes for both people and the environment.”
To support aluminium can collection, red collection bins are found across the island and at community events, with a large cage behind Parers King Island Hotel. Local businesses contribute scrap metal, and volunteers make sure even remote households can participate by collecting items directly.
Lions Club Treasurer Ira Cooke said, ‘The program is testament to what a small community can achieve, and we’ve been able to make a real difference with a bit of grit and some helping hands.’
Recycling proceeds have tangible benefits for the King Island community, with a wide range of local projects funded, including the installation of BBQ facilities for visitors and locals, sheltered facilities for senior citizens club and learner driver training for Year 10 students. The initiative not only diverts waste from coastlines and waterways but also strengthens community pride and environmental responsibility.
Ira continues, ‘It’s not glamorous work, but when you see the impact it has, from cleaner beaches to community BBQs, it’s more than worth it.’