By JESSE GRAHAM
A MAN is facing a $300 littering fine after illegally dumping green waste in the forest near Big Pats Creek, after an anonymous tip-off from a witness.
The Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) announced on Tuesday 24 May that it had received an anonymous tip-off about a man dumping “several” trailer-loads of green waste in the Yarra State Forest near Big Pats Creek.
DELWP project officer Joy Harte said that weeds from the man’s garden were dumped among the green waste and that the anonymous tipper had witnessed the dumping.
When contacted, the dumper claimed he did not know his actions were illegal.
“It’s important that people know that dumping litter or waste, even green waste from your garden, is illegal and will not be tolerated,” Ms Harte said.
“Discarded waste of any kind is not only unsightly but can be harmful to the wildlife that inhabit the forest and can lead to weed infestations.
“The forest is here for everyone to enjoy and we want to ensure it stays that way.”
The man was fined $303 for the dumping. Those caught littering in the forest face similar on-the-spot fines, and can be ordered to remove the litter.
Failing to remove the litter can be followed up with a $1820 infringement notice or a penalty of $6066 through the courts.
Dumping in the Yarra State Forest has been an ongoing issue for DELWP, with numerous cases of rubbish and household materials being dumped off embankments by the roadside.
The Mail reported in September last year that two truckloads of rubbish – including mattresses and up to 30 tyres – were dumped down a steep embankment on the same road as the Wesburn waste transfer station.
Due to the steep angle of the area, DELWP paid thousands of dollars for contractors to remove the rubbish, though other rubbish had also been dumped nearby.
Asbestos was also found dumped in the forest last year, and was removed by specialist contractors at a cost of $8000.
Anyone spotting suspicious behaviour or rubbish dumping can make a report to DELWP on 136 186, to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or to www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
