December 10, 2024
A whole bunch of South Burnett families will have a better Christmas this year thanks to the efforts of Paddy “The Can Man” Weber.
On Tuesday morning, Paddy and his wife Di, from Ellesmere, announced the results of another 12 months of dedicated recycling.
The pair have turned 20,000 cans and bottles into boxes and boxes of much-need foodstuffs for the annual Christmas Food Drive.
They also put together 15 handbags, packed with personal items, which will be distributed by Centacare in the South Burnett.
But why does Paddy – who works at the South Burnett Regional Council – go to all this trouble every year?
“I just want to help people,” he told southburnett.com.au
“People are really struggling at the moment and there’s so much domestic violence now, it’s really shocking.”
Paddy and Di collect their own cans and bottles, but Paddy also gratefully receive donations from friends, workmates and community groups.
He would especially like to thank the following people for helping him this year:
- The Ascot Motel, Kingaroy
- Work colleagues
- Kumbia Race Club
- Western Performance Club, Nanango
- Baines Rural Fencing
“I would also like to thank the public themselves for making this time of the year a happier time for people,” Paddy said.
“And I would also like to thank Chrissy and her team at Containers For Change for counting all my big loads in this heat.
“There are others who do not wish to be mentioned, but you know who you are, so thank you!”
Anyone who would like to donate 10c-refundable cans and bottles to The Can Man’s next drive, should contact Paddy on 0437-449-260.
* * *
Even though Paddy’s efforts in 2024 have been amazing, the organisers of the annual Christmas Food Drive are still looking for items, and time is running out!
The most-needed items are:
- Spreads – Vegemite, jams, honey
- Foodstuffs – Dry pasta, noodles, rice, sauces, coffee, tea, Milo, soft drinks
- Long life products – Milk, juice, custard
- Canned food – Meat, vegetables, fish, fruit
- Baking items – Cake mixes, flour, sugar
- Nibbles – Chips, pretzels, nuts, lollies, chocolates
- Baby products – Nappies, wipes, baby food, formula sachets only
- Christmas items – Puddings, shortbread, bon bons, candy canes, Christmas cakes, decorations
- Gift vouchers
Please make sure the items are within their use-by dates and the packets are not open!
Items can be dropped off in Kingaroy at Bill Hull Car Centre, 11 Avoca Street or at South Burnett CTC at 6 Cornish Street.
The donations will be distributed via South Burnett CTC and Eva’s Place.
Donations will be accepted until December 13.
