Biker saves cans for cash to end hunger

A biker with a big heart is on a mission to help his community one bottle at a time.

FOR A CAUSE: Eldon Morse is collecting cans and bottles on his motorcycle to raise money for the Maroochy Neighbourhood Centre. Picture: Patrick Woods

A BIKER with a big heart is on a mission to help his community one bottle at a time.

Eldon Morse has faced the harsh reality of needing food assistance to stay alive.

"I know what it's like to be down and out,” Mr Morse said.

"Like a lot of people I have suffered depression and feeling like there is no hope, but the Maroochy Neighbourhood Centre has helped me to get back on my feet.”

That's why Mr Morse is riding all over the Coast to turn bottles and cans into cash for the community hub that was there in his hour of need.

The Maroochydore resident said he was collecting recyclables through the Containers for Change scheme to make a difference in people's lives.

"To me the number I help isn't important, I don't care if it's one or 100 people,” he said.

"I only gave the Neighbourhood Centre about nine dollars worth of cans and bottles last time, but even they said every little bit counts in helping feed people.”

Mr Morse said he can fit 150 items on his motorbike at one time, but is hoping more people contribute to the cause.

"I'd love to be able to do a few loads every day,” he said. "Or even if people do it themselves and donate to the centre directly, it doesn't matter, as long as the funds are getting to them.”

Maroochy Neighbourhood Centre community development program coordinator Mark Ellis said it was great Mr Morse took the initiative to raise funds for their One Roof program.

"I think it's a great thing, he's a really good bloke,” Mr Ellis said.

"Eldon has accessed the dinners we provide before so this is his way of giving back to make sure we can keep doing what we're doing.”

Those with spare cans or bottles wanting to contribute to Mr Morse's cause can call him on 0420 305 714.