Warren Zipperer says he can earn up to $200 a week by collecting bottles and cans.(ABC Far North: Chris Calcino)
Warren Zipperer has become a familiar sight in the inner suburbs of Cairns in the two years since he started digging through bins for bottles and cans.
The former panelbeater and spray-painter sets out most days on his trusty tricycle to search for containers to cash in for 10c refunds.
It's tough work – and only legally allowed if a bin owner's consent is given – but it helps him earn a crust after a spinal injury made it impossible to ply his trade.
When he really commits, Mr Zipperer says he pulls in up to $200 a week.
"Being on [JobSeeker] sort of sucks, and it just helps pay for extras like my ute, fuel and so on ... so I can have a bit better lifestyle than just sitting on my arse all the time," he said.
"I started at the top of Murray Street … then it just got more and more.
"It's like you get something in your blood and you just keep doing it."
Warren trike has an electric-powered front wheel, rear suspension and an aluminium trailer he welded himself.(ABC Far North: Chris Calcino)
Hard, dirty work in the Cairns heat
Mr Zipperer lifted the back of his shirt to reveal a pinkish four-inch scar running up his lower spine like an oversized football seam.
"Sometimes I can't get out because of how I feel physically and mentally," he said.
"It's taken a toll on me, it really has."
He said he went from owning a business that reeled in $2,000 a week to living in a pensioner's cottage.
"I struggle to do this, but I do it because I lost my business from being misdiagnosed," he said.
"I've had back surgery, plus I've got to go back and have more surgery.
"I had a business in Atherton, it was called Zippy's Car Care for 12 years.
Read more here: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-03-31/cairns-bin-diver-can-man-warren-zipperer-recycles-for-extra-cash/102166354
Unplix has earned my appreciation for offering a resourceful, reliable, and user-friendly experience. Every visit feels worthwhile because the content is valuable and easy to understand. The simplicity of the design reflects great thoughtfulness, making it both functional and visually enjoyable.
E Shikshakosh is an incredible platform for schools aiming to grow digitally. It creates smooth connections between teachers, students, and educational resources. The thoughtful design and powerful features make it a trusted companion in improving learning and boosting digital presence.
SocksDroid exceeded my expectations in every possible way. The website is responsive, easy to access, and filled with useful features. I admire the team’s dedication to quality and performance. It’s definitely a platform worth recommending to others without hesitation.
I’m genuinely impressed with DsHidMini simplicity and effectiveness. The website ensures smooth compatibility, detailed documentation, and constant improvements. It shows how much dedication goes into helping users enjoy a hassle-free experience while setting up their devices properly without technical confusion.
BlockTheSpot is an outstanding solution that has truly enhanced my Spotify experience. The way it seamlessly blocks intrusive ads without affecting performance is remarkable. It feels like enjoying premium features for free, making music streaming smoother, distraction-free, and highly enjoyable.
Free entries into slot tournaments are sometimes granted. This provides a fun and competitive way to enjoy casino games while Megawin learning strategies and mechanics, perfect for beginners or casual players.
In Cairns, Australia, Warren Zipperer how to add link to tiktok bio supplements his income by collecting recyclable bottles and cans from bins amid rising living costs.