Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) has fined Burra Foods almost $8000 for discharging contaminated storm water into Coalition Creek at Korumburra.
EPA Gippsland Manager Mr Stephen Lansdell, said EPA officers responded when a member of the public reported sludge in the Creek.
“This is another great example of the importance of the local community being our eyes and ears. We really value this local intelligence. It is vital in helping us prevent and respond to harm,” Mr Lansdell said.
Mr Lansdell said Coalition Creek is a valuable environmental asset to the local community and runs through the Korumburra Botanical Gardens, a popular picnicking and walking park.
“It is disappointing that Burra Foods did not have adequate measures in place to prevent this discharge. However, the company has been cooperative and responsive to EPA’s concerns and is addressing the issue,” Mr Lansdell said.
EPA’s investigation found the sludge was a discharge of water that was high in sediment and nutrients, from the company’s stormwater dam.
EPA has fined the company $7773 and two notices requiring improvements to the stormwater and treated waste water discharge systems. The first notice was complied with on 7 August, the other notice is due for compliance by 28 September 2017.
“Since the incident, Burra Foods has undertaken works to prevent sludge or sediment from the storm water dam being discharged offsite and prepared a plan to control and monitor the discharge of storm water from the site,” Mr Lansdell said.
“The fine is a reminder to all local companies of their environmental obligations, and make sure their management systems prevent contaminated stormwater leaving their site.”
Members of the public can report pollution of the environment to the 24-hour EPA pollution hotline, by calling 1300 372 842 (1300 EPA VIC). There’s more information at www.epa.vic.gov.au/get-involved/report-pollution