Harden local recycles to help others after cancer battle

Harden local Steve Pinney began collecting cans and bottles from friends and family to make a bit of extra spending money while doing something to help the planet.

But after a battle with prostate cancer, he started to think about how he could help others going through a similar ordeal. He decided to donate to the Harden-Murrumburrah branch of Can Assist, to help assist other people in his rural area with access to cancer treatment and care.

His daughter Mel Pinney said that he looked for ways to involve more people and collect more containers.

“Through word-of-mouth and support from the local newspaper and radio station, word started getting out. Steve offers a pick-up service for elderly residents, and also arranges collection from local events and businesses.

“The 2023 Harden Picnic Races had the biggest result for a single event so far, with around 6,600 containers able to be returned. That meant $660 was raised from just one event,” said Mel.

Steve cleans and sorts all the donated containers to redeem through Return and Earn, and donates the money to Can Assist. Sometimes members of the Can Assist committee help with the sorting after big events.

“It’s very different work to his career as a Postal Manager with Australia Post for over 40 years. It is certainly keeping him busy during his retirement though!” said Mel.

Local support has included container donations from the Light Horse Hotel, the Harden-Murrumburrah Debutante Ball, Rugby League Presentation Night, Harden Kite Festival, weekly collections from the local touch footy competition, a private wedding function, and even the graduation night of the local preschool.

“Since May 2023, over $5,000 has been donated to Can Assist through the voluntary efforts of an amazing local community.

“Harden-Murrumburrah may be considered a small rural community but every can and bottle counts, and the community is well and truly behind Steve’s work to gain donations for Can Assist,” said Mel.