Crime scene — illegal dumping is an eyesore, a health hazard and a crime.By Kath Gannaway
YARRA Ranges Shire is investigating the illegal dumping of rubbish in Chum Creek.
Rubbish dumped at two locations on the Healesville-Kinglake Road before Christmas has been added to over the holiday period.
The road, managed by VicRoads is part of the Healesville-Toolangi loop and a major tourist route, especially for motorbike riders.
Grant Jack, Yarra Ranges manager of Asset Maintenance and Services, said while the road was VicRoads responsibility the shire was now handling the issue of illegal dumping at the site between Lowes and Mt Lebanon roads.
“There have been ongoing conversations and correspondence between VicRoads and the shire in an effort to try to resolve dumping of rubbish, which is continuing to occur in the shire, and we have undertaken to carry out the investigation at that site in an effort to track down the culprit,” Mr Jack said.
In addition to the mix of broken furniture, household garbage, toys, clothing and other rubbish, the rubbish pile included a box of papers, which could give some clue to where the rubbish had originated.
Mr Jack said investigators had been out to the site and the rubbish would be removed once they had given the green light.
“We would be hoping we can get a lead and get someone responsible for the dumping to clean it up,” Mr Jack said.
He said offenders could face fines associated with illegal dumping of rubbish under various Environment Protection Authority (EPA) and other littering laws.
He asked residents to assist the shire in their efforts to curb illegal dumping.
“If people do see anyone dumping rubbish they should contact the shire or the EPA with the make, colour and registration number of the vehicle and the time and location.”
