Ararat Rural City Council is celebrating strong local participation in Pharmacycle, Australia's blister pack recycling program, with community drop-off points and partner pharmacies helping keep tens of thousands of used packs out of landfill in the past year.
In 2024-25, residents and local businesses worked together to divert 58.92 kilograms (or 39,281 units) of blister packs for recycling, a measurable step toward reducing waste and supporting sustainable practices in the region.
Since July 2022, the Ararat Rural City community's efforts have led to 89.31 kg (or 59,542 units) of blister packs collected and recycled locally, representing 0.21% of Victoria's total collections.
The material is now already being processed and turned into new products, demonstrating the impact of local collaboration in building more sustainable systems. Residents can take advantage of the ongoing drop-off service at East Grampians Health Service, Priceline Pharmacy and Blooms The Chemist in Ararat.
Ararat Rural City Council Deputy Mayor, Cr Bob Sanders, said, "This initiative highlights how small actions, when carried out across the community, can add up to substantial change. Our residents are ensuring that more resources are recovered and reused, helping Ararat Rural City Council model more sustainable behaviours for the future."
Council encourages everyone to participate in this growing program and to share information on the local collection point with family, friends, and neighbours. By working together, the community can ensure even more blister packs find a second life and avoid landfill.
