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The EPA is chasing several leads as it investigates the illegal dumping of hundreds of tyres in Eaglehawk and has warned perpetrators they face fines of up to $758,350.
North West Environment Protection Authority Victoria manager Scott Pigdon said the EPA’s Illegal Dumping Strikeforce issued 45 notices in 2014-15 for about 60,000 tonnes of waste illegally dumped in the region.
“This program has a heavy focus on stockpiling of tyres and the illegal dumping of construction and demolition waste,” Mr Pigdon said.
“Over the past six months, EPA’s North West office has undertaken a significant number of inspections of local demolition companies and recycling operators to ensure necessary permits are in place and that waste is being managed appropriately.
“Anyone who dumps industrial waste, or permits the inappropriate disposal of waste, faces a fine of more than $7,500 or up to $758,350 if prosecuted.”
The EPA is leading the investigation along with the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning – which will remove the tyres – and the City of Greater Bendigo.
Several weeks ago more than 300 tyres were dumped on Crown land between York Street and McCormacks Road, with several dozen syringes scattered around the mound of illegal waste. Several hundred metres away, on Williams Road, locals found about 50 tyres dumped by the old railway line.
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The city's acting presentation and assets director Brett Martini said council wanted to see “significant fines” which sent a message to businesses which had adopted illegal dumping into their business model.
“A message that says it’s far cheaper to dispose of waste legally than illegally,” Mr Martini said.
“Council is working with the EPA in collecting information for potential prosecution – and, as we understand it, the EPA already have a couple of leads and info that they’re working through.”
EPA urges members of the community to report illegal dumping of commercial, industrial or large-scale waste to EPA on 1300 372 842 (1300 EPA VIC) or online at epa.vic.gov.au.
