Merriwa Industries to Deliver Purple Bins
Published on 04 July 2025
Rural City of Wangaratta is proud to be working with Merriwa Industries to support the rollout of purple-lidded recycling bins as part of the Victorian Government’s expanded recycling initiative. The delivery of purple bins will commence the week beginning 7 July and run through August.
The partnership with Merriwa Industries followed a public competitive tender. They are a leading local organisation providing meaningful employment opportunities for people with disability, is playing a vital role in preparing the bins for distribution. Staff at Merriwa are assembling the bins, attaching wheels and lids, ensuring they are ready for delivery to households across the region.
The collaboration shows a shared commitment to sustainability, inclusion, and community growth - building a stronger Wangaratta by creating meaningful job opportunities for people with disability.
Merriwa Industries origins date back to 1975 when a group of visionary parents and volunteers established a workplace where people with disability could thrive. Today they employ 266 people with over 60% of hours worked in their commercial operations performed by people with disability.
“Social procurement is becoming a big part of how businesses and organisations make decisions. With clients like Telstra, Beyond Housing and Council, we are increasingly seeing demand that is driven by shared values.”
“Merriwa is uniquely placed locally to be able to assist in a variety of work activities. Having labour who can help with RCOW’s Purple Glass Bin roll out awarded to Trident Waste & Recycling Services, demonstrates the flexibility of what we can offer for our customers” - Bart Crawley, Merriwa Industries CEO.
“Merriwa industries have been part of our community for decades, and their dedication to inclusion and excellence aligns perfectly with our values. It’s great to support local jobs for people of all abilities - working together to make Wangaratta a better place for everyone.” - Irene Grant, Rural City of Wangaratta Mayor
Find out when your purple bin will be delivered here: www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Home/PurpleBinDelivery