Dumped cigarette proves costly to Armstrong Creek resident

AN Armstrong Creek resident has been fined nearly $800 for discarding a lit cigarette from his car on Belmont’s Corio Street, despite not receiving a conviction.

The case, which proceeded to the Geelong Magistrates’ Court, concluded with the individual pleading guilty.

He was subsequently fined $500 and faced an additional $281 in legal costs.

EPA Victoria initiated the fine after a report was made to their 24-hour pollution hotline by a witness.

The environmental authority highlighted the significant issue of cigarette butts as the most prevalent form of litter, which not only pollute waterways and drains but pose a serious bushfire risk.

CFA chief officer Jason Heffernan said bushfires did not only occur on high-risk days.

“Careless disposal of smoking materials can quickly start a fire, especially in a high-risk area such as on a balcony, in a street bin or near grass and parklands.

“It doesn’t have to be a hot or windy day for a fire to spread quickly and cause substantial damage.

“Smokers must fully extinguish smoking materials and dispose of them in heavy, high-sided ashtrays to avoid starting a fire.”

EPA manager of compliance programs Dan Hunt has previously highlighted the critical role the community plays in reporting littering.

“Victorians don’t like litter, and as many offenders are discovering, it can cost you a lot more than the little bit of effort it takes to do the right thing,” Mr Hunt said.

“Put out the cigarette and put it in a bin, or take it with you.”

In the past financial year, Victorians submitted more than 27,000 pollution reports – double the number reported three years ago.

The penalty for carelessly starting a fire during the Fire Danger Period can be more than $23,000 and two years’ imprisonment, or double that on Total Fire Ban days.

The EPA urges the community to continue reporting pollution incidents through their hotline at 1300 372 842 or online.