The reverse vending machine, which allows drink containers to be deposited for a 10-cent return, began working on Friday.

It is located in the car park of the Springdale Heights shopping centre with vouchers from the machine able to be converted to cash at the IGA supermarket.

IGA owner Bob Mathews said a dedicated checkout had been created to handle refunds.

“There’s 60,000 people in Albury, we reckon there could be 2000 to 3000 people coming with their containers each week and while we’re the only one in town we reckon we’ll be very busy,” he said.

Mr Mathews said electricians only finalised work on the machine around 10am on Friday with contractor TOMRA-Cleanaway pushing to have it operating for the start of the Return and Earn scheme.

“I’m not sure what the cost of that would have been, but the pressure was on TOMRA to get as many out as they can,” he said.

Mr Mathews, who wanted the scheme delayed and protested to premier Gladys Berejiklian in Dean Street this week, retreated from a plan to put the office phone number of Albury MLA Greg Aplin on the machine.

“We just think the potential level of complaints we thought we would get would be problematic for Greg Aplin and we’re encouraging people to speak to TOMRA-Cleanaway, but if you’re worried about the concept then talk to Greg,” Mr Mathews said.

The rollout of the scheme has incurred criticism with only two collection points set-up in the southern Riverina and the machines not accessible for those in wheelchairs.

In an interview with The Border Mail, Environment Minister Gabrielle Upton declined to admit there had been any problems with the rollout after Nationals leader John Barilaro conceded it had been far from seamless.

The lack of a similar scheme in Victoria, resulting in drinks being more costly in NSW, has been the biggest concern on the Border.

“All states will be on board except Victoria next year,” Ms Upton said.

“I call on the Victorian government to step up and do what’s right for the environment and not be a holdout.”