I was going through difficulties when the opportunity came along to become a driver. After looking into what I needed to do, I decided to go ahead with it. The promise of a strong financial income and being able to work in an industry that is helping to look after our environment was a good feeling.

My role assists in cleaning up our environment and reducing the amount of bottles and cans that find their way into our gutters, creeks and streams. I really enjoy the fact that everyday is different, being outdoors and travelling around Sydney for work.

I have always been a conscious person in regards to recycling, but this has increased since I have worked in the industry. I have also involved my family more in recycling as the kids love collecting and returning bottles at the RVMs.

I think gender bias does still exist in the industry. Although as companies and industries are becoming more aware, this is decreasing rapidly. Women have proven themselves and are breaking the boundaries of bias that have held them back for so long.

One day when I had just emptied an RVM, I was approached by a female customer and she congratulated me on being a female driver and said how lovely it was to see a woman in the role, especially when the industry is a male dominated one.