IR transmission and reception is pretty well limited in its distance due to several factors, not the least of which is ambient light. The changers we use for TV are highly coded... first in their frequency of operation, and in the complex order of their instruction pulses.
As to the circuit you have shown, it would appear the author may have intended his circuit to be used as a proximity detector, which means the IR reciever detects light transmitted by the transmitter reflecting off an object in close proximity.
If you haven't done too much tinkering, you might be able to test this theory by adjusting the modules as shown on the circuit, then placing a white card or piece of paper a couple of cm ahead of the sensor. Reflected light should activate the circuit. Also, you should make every attempt to shield the recievers from extra light, expecially fluorescent.
I'm sure there are others who will give you their opinions on the matter.
Good luck.