Illegal Mandurang burnoff earns four-figure fine

CIVIL and construction contractor McKern Contracting Pty Ltd has been fined more-than $6000 after the Environment Protection Authority Victoria discovered they were burning industrial waste at their Mandurang premises.

Responding to a tip off from the public on Monday 27 April, officers found a pile of waste that included metal brackets, timber, chipboard and sections of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) moulding still on fire when they arrived.

The officers then issued McKern Contracting an on-the-spot fine of $6105 for the unlawful deposit of more than 50 litres (but not more than 1000 litres) of industrial waste by burning which is an offence under the Environment Protection Act 2017.

EPA northwest regional manager Paul Ratajczyk said burning industrial waste does not eliminate it.

“Burning construction and demolition waste can contaminate the soil, then the next rain takes the contamination to the nearest waterway,” he said.

“Even in a rural area, the smoke can cause odour and potentially affect people’s health.”

Ratajczyk said if anyone is wondering whether they can burn certain things, chances are they can’t.

“It is unlawful to dispose of industrial waste by burning, and you still wind up with visible residue,” he advised.

“Any passing member of the public can see what you’re doing and report it to EPA.”

Under the Environment Protection Act 2017 and the Infringements Act 2006, McKern Contracting has the right to have the infringement notice reviewed or be considered by a court.

Members of the public can report pollution by calling EPA’s 24-hour hotline on 1300 372 842 or by providing details online via its website.