Local Recycling Service Evolves with New National Identity
As Australia marks National Recycling Week 2025, households across Newcastle, the Central Coast and Hunter Valley are discovering that their trusted local metal collection service now operates under a fresh banner. Australian Metal Recycling (AMR) has emerged as the new identity for what was previously known as Matthews Metal Management's Household Collections service.
The change represents more than just a name update. According to Managing Director Gordon Matthews, the transformation reflects the company's expanding footprint while maintaining its core commitment to community service. "While our name has changed, our mission hasn't," Matthews emphasized. "We're still committed to offering the same reliable, free and responsible service that locals know and trust."
Same Service, Expanded Reach
The transition to Australian Metal Recycling comes after the service successfully completed more than 40,000 local collections throughout the region. Residents can rest assured that the familiar aspects of the service remain unchanged. The same friendly team continues operating the same collection trucks, maintaining their reputation for showing up when scheduled.
The Rutherford facility serves as a major regional hub, supporting both household collections and commercial recycling operations across Newcastle, Maitland and the broader Hunter Valley. This strategic location enables AMR to provide faster response times while simultaneously reducing transport emissions by processing materials closer to their source.
National Recycling Week 2025: "Rescue Me"
The timing of the rebranding coincides with National Recycling Week 2025, which carries the theme "Rescue Me." This initiative highlights how everyday household items can be saved from landfill through responsible recycling practices.
"This year's theme, 'Rescue Me,' is a stark reminder of how small actions at home can make a big difference," Gordon Matthews noted, encouraging residents to look around their homes for recyclable metal items.
The service accepts a wide range of metal waste and electronic items, including:
- Old refrigerators and washing machines
- Computers and printers
- Outdoor equipment like swing sets
- Various other scrap metal items
With operations spanning seven recycling yards throughout New South Wales, Australian Metal Recycling plays a significant role in both regional sustainability efforts and local employment. The company's extensive network ensures that materials are processed responsibly while supporting the circular economy.
Households can continue to book free collections through the original website at https://matthewsmm.com.au/#collections or via their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/matthewsmetalmanagement. The service remains completely free for local residents, demonstrating AMR's ongoing commitment to environmental accountability and community support.