Penrith Freecycle is part of the Freecycle Network, which began in the United States.

It is a nonprofit group but Freecycle and its logo are trademarks of the network overseas.

``I'm approving people [for Penrith Freecycle] every day, the word's sort of getting out there,'' said one of the owners and moderators of Penrith Freecycle, Tammie Fink, of Werrington Downs.

The Penrith group began early in 2007 and last Tuesday, there were 610 members ``and there are people joining every day''.

``It's a good way of getting rid of stuff without throwing it out,'' said Mrs Fink, who wondered whether people who put out items for council pick-ups knew about Penrith Freecycle which is run through Yahoo! Groups.

Once approved, members can post an item on the message board so long as it is available free and is legal.

Members can also post a message asking for something. Mrs Fink said one person had even asked for a caravan. Did they get it? ``I'm not sure but if you don't ask you don't know.''

Mrs Fink said the group, as well as being environmentally friendly, was handy for people who might be struggling financially or who had bought their first house.

She said it was great for getting rid of items not needed but too good to throw out.

When she checked on Tuesday there were offers for a desk, a touch lamp and a barbecue, while somebody was asking for a ukulele.

There is also a link on the website for the Penrith Freecycle Cafe, where community events such as garage sales can be posted.

Details, membership: groups .yahoo.com/group/PenrithFreecycle .