Environment Protection Agency officers investigated after the farm had a large fire  – burning plasterboard, Styrofoam insulation, masonite sheet, and plastic conduit – in March this year. 

Acting EPA north west manager Stephen Lansdell said the farm had been fined 

for dangerous disposal of waste.

Burning industrial waste in the region has been the subject of EPA enforcement over the past two years and Romlent is the latest company to be caught out. 

“The actions of this business impacted the community and the environment,” Mr Landsell said. 

“The rules for disposing waste are there for a reason – to protect the environment and public health.

“Do the right thing and follow them, or face the consequences.” 

Mr Lansdell said the incident was a timely reminder that burning industrial waste was never an appropriate disposal option. 

He said smoke from burning could be a problematic source of air pollution – more than cars and trucks – and was often the cause of localised smog. 

“It does not matter if there are fire restrictions or not,” Mr Landsell said.

“The only way to dispose of this waste is by landfill. 

“We recommend considering reuse options in the first instance, however if that can’t be achieved then disposal or recycling options are available at landfills and transfer stations.” 

Romlent has 28 days to pay the fine, seek an internal review or have the matter dealt with in court. 

The Bendigo Advertiser was unable to contact Romlent representatives.