By Kath Gannaway
The dumping of hundreds of tyres in the Yarra State Forest is damaging land and waterways, and robbing Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFMV) staff of valuable resources.
FFMV is made up of personnel from DELWP, Parks Victoria, VicForests and Melbourne Water who have broader forest management as part of their roles.
FFMV Senior Forest Management Officer, Monica Mains, said they are fighting an uphill battle against the continued dumping of hard rubbish, including tyres in the forest, with with more tyres discarded on Brahams Road, East Warburton earlier this month.
“An inconsiderate few continue to dump their hard rubbish in the forest with no regard for the environment or for other forest visitors,” Ms Mains said.
She said tyres are a fire hazard and contain toxic chemicals that eventually leach into the environment.
“Recently, 70 tyres were dumped in one of our firefighting water points, where we draw water from during fires. This contamination could have made the water unusable during fire response.
“I’m certain that the local community would be upset and angry knowing the risks that this illegal activity creates.”
Ms Mains said disposing of tyres creates extra work for FFMV staff at a time when they could be doing something more beneficial for forest users.
“We’re not talking about one or two tyres, we’re talking about repeated, deliberate large-scale dumping. In excess of 140 tyres have been dumped on one road in the past month,” she said.
Ms Mains said old car tyres can be recycled for a small fee at various locations.
Yarra Ranges waste-transfer stations take tyres for $8 each and Eco Waste Recycling in Kilsyth also takes tyres.
Ms Mains called for people to be vigilant when they are out in the bush.
“Someone will have seen something, or knows who is doing this,” she said.
Anyone with information should report it to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or to the Powelltown office on 5965 9901.
All information will be treated confidentially and can be provided anonymously.
