THE state’s peak environmental watchdog has fined the owner of a Bendigo gardening business for illegally dumping industrial waste in a national park.
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The Environment Protection Authority Victoria slapped a $1771 fine on the unidentified businessman following a joint investigation with Parks Victoria.
Kitchen waste, bottles, cans and various plastics were discovered dumped in a pit in the Greater Bendigo National Park, on Rifle Range Road, near Eaglehawk earlier this year.
The sole contractor, whose name the EPA will not release publicly for privacy reasons, had been hired in February by a local hotel to remove and appropriately dispose of the waste.
EPA North West acting-manager Danny Childs said evidence gathered by Parks Victoria helped the authority to quickly identify and issue the fine to the offender.
He said the state’s Environment Protection Act defined industrial waste as arising from industrial, commercial or trade activities.
“Depositing industrial waste in such an uncontrolled way can cause land pollution and groundwater contamination for future generations,” he said.
“Businesses who engage contractors to remove waste also have a responsibility in ensuring waste is disposed of appropriately.
“EPA and Parks Victoria will continue to maintain a strong presence and take a zero tolerance approach to illegal dumping across the state.”
Parks Victoria team leader Mat Sobey said the dumping rubbish in parks was not only unsightly and potentially dangerous for visitors, but impacts on native plants and animals.
“The Bendigo community can help put a stop to the damage being done to the natural environment and health of our parks by reporting suspicious activity of dumping,” he said.
“Keeping parks healthy and clean makes them great places for everyone to enjoy.”
The EPA encourages Bendigo residents to call its 24-hour hotline on 1300 372 842, or log on to www.epa.vic.gov.au, to report any pollution incidents.
