All About Cork: SuperValu store install third reverse vending machine

Barry Collins SuperValu is on track to process 3.5 million plastic containers and aluminium cans per year, following the installation of a bulk reverse (RVM) vending machine at its Carrigaline store, just the third one of its kind in the country.

Supported by ReTurn, the machine is the third to be installed at the store, and will enable customers to recycle a full bag of containers into the chute, with the machine able to process up to up to 100 containers per minute. This will allow customers and local clubs and charities to conveniently recycle larger quantities of plastic containers and aluminium cans.

Store customers have recycled 2.1 million containers since the launch of the deposit return scheme in February 2024.

David Collins, owner of Barry Collins SuperValu said the installation of a third machine further demonstrates their commitment to sustainability and the local area.

“I’m proud to announce the installation of our third ReTurn RVM machine. This high-capacity bulk machine will allow customers to return more containers in a single visit, offering greater convenience while encouraging sustainable habits,” said Mr Collins.

“With the addition of this new bulk machine, we can now process more than 3.5 million containers annually. It’s all about making it simple for our community to do the right thing for the environment.

“What makes this even more impactful is that local clubs and charities can return their containers at a much faster rate, raising much-needed funds. It’s a win-win for our town - cleaner streets, stronger community ties, and a shared sense of purpose in creating a better future for the community.”

As part of a significant investment in 2024, Barry Collins SuperValu incorporated a number of sustainability upgrades to enhance the efficiency of the store. These upgrades included the installation of 728 solar panels, all-fridge doors, and LED lighting.

With a €1.5m investment on sustainability alone, the store has reduced its carbon footprint, emphasising sustainability in its practices, including stocking more than 1,600 products produced locally in Ireland.

Family support centre launches fundraising drive

The Carrigaline Family Support Centre has launched a fundraising drive to help progress plans for a new hub for the local community.

The Carrigaline Family Support Centre is a registered charity and also a company limited by guarantee. While it receives core funding from both the HSE and Tusla annually, like many charitable organisations, its core funding does not cover the service delivery costs.

Therefore it must engage in external fundraising and look to other sources of funding to run their programmes.

In a message on its website the centre said: “We are delighted to say we have finally purchased our forever home, right next door to our current premises, you may know it as the county council office, well from now on, it will be the Family Support Centre!

“This has been a long time coming and has involved some very tough negotiations, decisions and sacrifices, but we are here and we are so excited about the future of our centre now,” read the message.

“It is however a huge cost to us, so if you can make a donation, please do, or if your company is looking for a community sponsorship partner, know we are here and genuinely in need of your support.”

People can make a one-off donation by clicking on the link at www.carrigalinefamilysupportcentre.ie/donate.html. For more long term or substantial donations, please contact Chris on (021) 4919299.

In a post on social media the centre said the fundraising drive will help them complete key areas such as play therapy and arts therapy rooms, “and to ensure the entire feels safe, supportive, and iniviting for all who walk through the doors.”

“Every contribution brings us closer to creating a space where healing, creativity, and connection can thrive.

“Thank you for being part of this important chapter with us!”

Pioneer pin presentation

Carrigaline will be the venue for the annual Diocesan Pioneer Mass which will take place in the Church of Our Lady and St John on Saturday, September 6, at 6pm. Any pioneer qualifying for a gold, silver or diamond pin and certificate can contact their own pioneer centre or Aislinn on 087 9699488. Pins will be presented after Mass followed by refreshments.

Work on greenway ongoing

Cork County Council are working on sections of the greenway from Cork city to Crosshaven, which travels along the old Blackrock railway line. The link through Bridgemount Estate in Carrigaline is now completed and in operation. The section in the adjoining Herons Wood is also finished and will be open to the public in the days ahead. The length of greenway from Murph’s pub near Bunkilla to Carrigaline Middle via Strawhall and Raffeen remains to be developed.

End of summer event

An end of summer children’s fundraising event will take place at the Carrigaline Lions Youth Centre between noon and 2pm on Saturday, August 23. Suitable for children between the ages of three and eight, the event will include a mini-disco, games, face painting, balloons, and arts and crafts. The afternoon will also feature special gests Little Kickers Pre-School Fun and FunkyKids children’s activity classes.

Funds from the event will go to the Jack and Jill Foundation, Childhood Cancer Ireland, Headway, Rebel Wheelers, Carrigaline First Responders, and Carrialine Lions Youth Centre.

Tracton Community Market

The next monthly Tracton Community Market will take place on Sunday, August 24, from 11am to 1pm. A spokesperson said the market is a great opportunity for everyone to to enjoy the local food and craft.

“There’s everything available from fresh vegetables, brown bread, homemade cakes and barista coffee to stunning artworks, and hot pizza from the oven. We are always looking for new stalls and people to join us, so if you are interested or have any questions please call Barbara-Anne on 087 0998895 or email: communitymarket@tracton.org.”

Tracton Heritage Weekend

The fourth annual Tracton National Heritage Weekend will take place from August 22 to 24.

Organised by Tracton Biodiversity Group, this year’s event will be officially opened on August 23 at 11am by Minister for State Christopher O’Sullivan followed by a special presentation on the migratory journeys of birds by Eric Dempsey, broadcaster, author and wildlife photographer.

Other presentations include ‘The Underwater Wonders of the Oysterhaven Estuary’ in association with Cork Sub Aqua club and ‘Fairy Forts of Ireland’ with Jo Kerrigan.

The weekend will also feature workshops on compost making and helping native bees, arts and crafts for children, farm walks.

More details and booking information at https://www.facebook.com/TractonBiodiversity, and https://www.heritageweek.ie.