MITCHELL Shire Council and residents are fed up as they footed the bill to clean up illegally dumped material on Wallan Heights Road overnight on Wednesday.
Chief Executive Mary Agostino said: “There is no excuse for illegal dumping. It is unlawful and places the financial burden of clean-up costs on our ratepayers.”
Most concerning is that the perpetrator has unloaded close to the one of the gravel rural roads corners.
Ed Phillips, who has lived in the area for about 11 years, said: “It’s not only dangerous, it’s disrespectful. In the last six months there has been two incidents and when you have to get out of your car to move rubbish, it is frustrating.”
Mr Phillips is concerned for residents who need to evacuate under the threat of a bushfire.
Goulburn Region Tourism chair Jane Lovell is another resident who wants dumpers to think twice.
“This is a beautiful region, and we want people to enjoy it. We have a lot to be proud of … let’s not trash it,” Ms Lovell said.
The illegal litter dumping consisted of a used pram, trampoline mat, metal innerspring mattress, and miscellaneous timber.
Mr Phillips said about six months ago about 50 C02 cannisters, a product that provides portable gas solutions, were dumped and he is fed up.
Ms Lovell worked from home the next day as her usual exit was blocked.
Illegal dumping is a growing issue across Melbourne’s outer fringe, where large rural blocks, new estates, and less surveillance in isolated areas create more opportunities for people to dump rubbish illegally. It is particularly prominent in areas subject to significant development.
In support, the Victorian Government recently announced a $8.5 million Illegal Dumping Clean-Up Rebate Program, which provides rebates to councils and other eligible land managers to help cover a portion of the costs associated with cleaning up illegally dumped waste.
Ms Agostino said: “This support is welcome and helps local government manage the financial burden of responding to dumping incidents. However, stronger enforcement, tougher penalties for offenders, and improved regulation of the waste sector are still required if we are to reduce the frequency of dumping and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.”
To report illegally dumped waste, use the Report It tool on council’s website or phone 5734 6200, or contact the Environment Protection Authority’s 24-hour 372 842.
