A Lockwood man “hard up for cash” has been fined $1820 by Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) for illegally dumping hundreds of tyres in Eaglehawk in March this year.
And the person who hired him to get rid of the tyres from his scrap metal recycling yard has also received an $1820 fine by EPA for not ensuring the tyres were disposed of correctly.
EPA North West Regional Manager Scott Pigdon said on 15 March 2016, an EPA officer responded to a community report of dumped waste between York Street and McCormacks Road.
“On arrival, they found about 200 tyres dumped at the site, along with other waste including couches, used syringes and steel drums.”
“Clean-up of the tyres and remaining waste was undertaken by Parks Victoria and Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning and the syringes were removed by the City of Greater Bendigo.”
“EPA launched a full investigation into the matter, which led them to inspect the premises of a scrap metal recycling yard in Bendigo.”
“The primary operator of the business stated he had paid a Lockwood man $700 to remove a large amount of tyres from his property.
His description of the individual matched a witness’s description and account of the dumping.”
“EPA conducted a subsequent interview with the Lockwood man, who admitted committing the offence and that he offered to remove the tyres at a discounted price.”
Mr Pigdon said both individuals were fined under Section 27(2)(a) of the Environment Protection Act 1970 for dumping or permitting waste be dumped at a site not licensed to accept it.
“This is abhorrent behaviour by someone who admitted to committing an illegal offence just so he could make quick money.
“It also serves as a stern reminder that waste producers also have an obligation to dispose of waste correctly, and this case shows the cheaper option is not always the smarter option.
“EPA would like to send a strong message that penalties apply if you are caught doing the wrong thing.
“Tyre stockpiles are a hazard to the environment mainly due to the toxic emissions if they were to catch on fire. The environmental impacts and costs of illegal dumping are significant.
“Anyone needing to dispose of unwanted tyres should contact their local council or their regional waste management groups for legal disposal options or appropriate companies able to collect them,” he said.
Mr Pigdon encouraged the community to continue reporting illegal dumping via EPA’s pollution hotline 1300 372 842 (1300 EPA VIC) or online at www.epa.vic.gov.au