‘Can’ you feel the ‘change’? Aussie model hits the jackpot collecting cans for cash!
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In a world where the cost of living seems to be perpetually on the rise, Australians are increasingly seeking creative ways to bolster their income.
We at the Seniors Discount Club understand the unique challenges faced by those over 60 when it comes to managing finances in today's economic climate.
That's why we're always on the lookout for practical tips and inspiring stories that can help our members navigate these challenges with confidence.
One such story comes from Heidi Lou, a Brisbane-based model and graphic artist who has turned a simple daily routine into a profitable side hustle.
As reported, Heidi has discovered the financial benefits of collecting cans while walking her dog, Whiskey and cashing them in for 10-cent refunds through Queensland’s Containers for Change scheme.
Heidi's journey began with a desire to save up for a new couch without dipping into her regular budget.
‘My partner and I wanted to get a new couch because we have a hand-me-down but can’t really justify spending the money on it, so we thought we may as well just put this money aside for the couch because it’s basically free money anyway,’ the 32-year-old shared.
‘We opened up a savings account specifically for it so we can see how much we are getting from it. I opened the account around Christmas last year, and we’ve made nearly $300 since then.’
Heidi mentioned that the increasing cost of living has been taking a toll on her finances, with groceries, fuel, and regular bills being her major expenses.
‘We’re being really careful with our grocery shops and not eating out as much and looking for ways to save extra money or cut corners,’ she said.
‘This is definitely something that has helped us because we don’t want to spend money on new furniture, but if it's just free money, then it feels OK to spend.’
Heidi noted that the highest amount she managed to collect during a single walk with her German Shepherd, Whiskey, was $4, which equated to 40 cans.
She mentioned finding cans at nearby construction sites and in local parks within her neighbourhood.
Finder research revealed that collecting recyclable cans and bottles is among the most popular ways Australians are earning extra income, alongside selling second-hand items.
The survey indicated that Aussies make an average of $46 per month by recycling cans for 10 cents each.
Although it may not be the most profitable side hustle—ranking as the least lucrative option—it offers an easy way to earn some extra cash for activities people are already engaged in.
Heidi's videos have received a surge of comments from fellow Australians who have also begun collecting cans.
‘I’ve had so many people comment saying that they’re starting to do it as well. One lady was saying that she’s doing it with her kids,’ she said.
‘Another said [she] and her friends were inspired to do it, and they went out walking and collected six full bags, and they’re going to use that for their Bali holiday.’
Nearly every state and territory in Australia has established container return schemes that offer a 10-cent refund for each eligible container.
As Australians increasingly seek creative ways to boost their income, one woman’s innovative side hustle has garnered significant attention, demonstrating that anyone can tap into accessible opportunities.
This story not only highlights how everyday activities can be transformed into profitable ventures but also sets the stage for exploring even more unique side hustles.
For those looking to maximise their earnings, uncovering these lesser-known strategies can be a game-changer, as illustrated by other Australians who have successfully doubled their income through resourceful means.
Have you tried similar side hustles or are you are you considering trying one? How was your experience? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below. Let's inspire each other with stories of ingenuity and thriftiness that can make a real difference in our lives.
We at the Seniors Discount Club understand the unique challenges faced by those over 60 when it comes to managing finances in today's economic climate.
That's why we're always on the lookout for practical tips and inspiring stories that can help our members navigate these challenges with confidence.
One such story comes from Heidi Lou, a Brisbane-based model and graphic artist who has turned a simple daily routine into a profitable side hustle.
As reported, Heidi has discovered the financial benefits of collecting cans while walking her dog, Whiskey and cashing them in for 10-cent refunds through Queensland’s Containers for Change scheme.
A Brisbane woman has turned her dog walks into a side hustle, collecting cans and earning hundreds of dollars through Queensland's Containers for Change scheme. Credit: Tiktok / Heidi Lou
Heidi's journey began with a desire to save up for a new couch without dipping into her regular budget.
‘My partner and I wanted to get a new couch because we have a hand-me-down but can’t really justify spending the money on it, so we thought we may as well just put this money aside for the couch because it’s basically free money anyway,’ the 32-year-old shared.
‘We opened up a savings account specifically for it so we can see how much we are getting from it. I opened the account around Christmas last year, and we’ve made nearly $300 since then.’
Heidi mentioned that the increasing cost of living has been taking a toll on her finances, with groceries, fuel, and regular bills being her major expenses.
‘We’re being really careful with our grocery shops and not eating out as much and looking for ways to save extra money or cut corners,’ she said.
‘This is definitely something that has helped us because we don’t want to spend money on new furniture, but if it's just free money, then it feels OK to spend.’
Heidi noted that the highest amount she managed to collect during a single walk with her German Shepherd, Whiskey, was $4, which equated to 40 cans.
She mentioned finding cans at nearby construction sites and in local parks within her neighbourhood.
Finder research revealed that collecting recyclable cans and bottles is among the most popular ways Australians are earning extra income, alongside selling second-hand items.
The survey indicated that Aussies make an average of $46 per month by recycling cans for 10 cents each.
Although it may not be the most profitable side hustle—ranking as the least lucrative option—it offers an easy way to earn some extra cash for activities people are already engaged in.
Heidi's videos have received a surge of comments from fellow Australians who have also begun collecting cans.
‘I’ve had so many people comment saying that they’re starting to do it as well. One lady was saying that she’s doing it with her kids,’ she said.
‘Another said [she] and her friends were inspired to do it, and they went out walking and collected six full bags, and they’re going to use that for their Bali holiday.’
Nearly every state and territory in Australia has established container return schemes that offer a 10-cent refund for each eligible container.
- New South Wales — Return and Earn
- Victoria — CDS Vic
- Queensland — Containers for Change
- South Australia — Container Deposit Scheme
- Western Australia — Containers for Change
- Australian Capital Territory — ACT Container Deposit Scheme
- Northern Territory — NT Container Deposit Scheme
- Tasmania — TasRecycle
As Australians increasingly seek creative ways to boost their income, one woman’s innovative side hustle has garnered significant attention, demonstrating that anyone can tap into accessible opportunities.
This story not only highlights how everyday activities can be transformed into profitable ventures but also sets the stage for exploring even more unique side hustles.
For those looking to maximise their earnings, uncovering these lesser-known strategies can be a game-changer, as illustrated by other Australians who have successfully doubled their income through resourceful means.
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